A fishing licence has to be obtained from the Water Supplies Department for fishing in Hong Kong reservoirs. Applications are accepted throughout the year. The licence will be valid for 3 years and the fee is HK$24. To apply for the licence, you must be over 13. There is no restriction on the number of fishing licences to be issued each year.

Application for fishing licence can be made at the following Customer Enquiry Centres :

  1. Wan Chai Customer Enquiry Centre
  2. Mong Kok Customer Enquiry Centre

You should bring along your proof of identity and pay the fee when making application. The licence will normally be issued on the spot.

You can also submit your application by post to the Water Supplies Department. Please apply with completed application form, copy of proof of identity, together with a crossed cheque payable to "The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" and a self-addressed and stamped envelope. Please write "Application for fishing licence" on the envelope. The licence will be sent to you by surface mail.

Anglers, however, are requested to observe the followings :

  1. The licence is for the use of one rod and line only. The use of nets or other fishing appliances is not allowed.
  2. The use of explosive or toxic substances to catch or destroy fish is strictly prohibited.
  3. The use of boats, dinghies or rafts, etc. in the reservoir is not permitted.
  4. To protect fish, birds and people from lead poisoning, anglers are prohibited to use lead fishing sinkers.
  5. The release of any animals, including fish and reptiles, into reservoirs without the prior permission of the Water Authority is prohibited.
  6. Do not litter or pollute the reservoirs.
  7. All Black Bass under 360mm, all Snakeheads under 300mm and all fish of other species below 180mm in length measured from tip of nose to fork of tail shall be immediately returned to the reservoirs alive.
  8. Each angler shall not keep, in one day, more than two Black Bass of length 360mm or over, two Snakeheads 300mm or over and two fish each of other species 180mm or over.
  9. A police officer or any officer authorized by the Department may require a licensee to produce his licence for inspection when he is fishing in reservoirs.