It has become important to learn how to apply for a recreational fishing permit online in South Africa after the government launched the online application platform recently.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) launched the platform following the closure of many Post Office branches across the country.
“The online permitting system will enable enthusiastic recreational fishers and members of the public to easily access a recreational permit without having to travel distances to find a post office,” DFFE Minister Barbara Creecy said in a media release.
The platform will enable applicants to choose the type of permit they need, select the validity period (monthly or annual), process payments and download the permit. Applications via the Post Office will still be available for those who do not have access to the internet.
How to apply for recreational fishing permit online
South Africans can apply for a recreational fishing permit online by visiting the DFFE’s fishing platform. The first step is to register an account by following the steps below:
- Click “Login” followed by “To create a new account, click here.”
- Enter your details (such as username, email address and password) and click “Verify email address.”
- You will then receive a one-time PIN (OTP) on your email.
- Enter this OTP in the pop-up screen and click “Submit.”
- The portal will then redirect back to the login page, where you must log in with your credentials (username and password).
Once you have registered and logged in, you will see a Home Page displaying various sections such as status, permit period, permit number and identity/passport number.
To start your application, click the “New Applicant” button on the right. You will now see a recreational permit form as shown in the screenshot below.
Follow the steps below to apply:
- Enter your details in the mandatory fields (i.e., those with a red mark; other fields are optional).
- Click “Save & proceed.” You will now see a preview page that displays the fees and amounts you must pay.
- Click “Proceed to payment.” A pop-up screen will display the terms and conditions. If you agree, tick the “Agreed and Continue” checkbox and then click the “Accept” button.
- On the next page, click “Pay now.” Enter your card details in the fields provided and click “Pay now.”
- If the payment is successful, a page with a “Payment Approved” button will display as shown in the screenshot below.
This means that the application process is now complete. Click on the “Download Permit” link on the right to download your permit to your device. “The recreational fishing permit holder must have a copy of the permit when participating in recreational fishing activities,” the Department said.
The permit will show details such as the application number, permit number and your personal details such as ID or passport number, name and surname, and date of birth.
Other details include the permit period (annual or monthly), validity (from and to dates) and type (for example, angling). Remember to add your signature on the document.
“Fish caught in terms of this permit and fish products thereof is strictly not for sale. Failure to comply with any permit condition renders the permit holder liable to a fine and/or prosecution, and/or withdrawal of this permit,” the Department emphasised.
You can view or download the full application guide from the DFFE’s website here.