Managing commercial fishing

We work with businesses and the community to promote the future of sustainable fish stocks in South Australia.

This includes implementing fishing rules and regulations, licensing and registration, and managing the state's commercial fisheries and processors.

Fishing nets on the dock
Commercial fisheries

Get the required information for commercial fisheries working in SA waters, plus the latest on cost recovery from industry.

Single yellowtail kingfish swimming in clear blue ocean water, showing streamlined body, silvery flanks, and yellow tail fin.
Commercial size limits

Check the commercial fishing size limits for all applicable fish species in South Australia.

Busy seafood market interior with people gathered around large fish trays, weighing stations, and crates of ice-packed fish under bright lights.
Fish processing

Find out about the rules and regulations that apply to fish processing in SA, as well as registration requirements.

Yellowtail kingfish stirring the water inside a sea cage aquaculture pen, with netting and structures visible on a calm body of water.
Fisheries management

See the latest notices to fishers, determinations, management plans, policies and reports, as well as fisheries allocations.

A close-up underwater photograph of a silvery fish, showing detailed scales, a wide mouth, and a dark round eye. The lighting highlights the fish’s metallic sheen against a dark blue aquatic background.
Licensing and registration

Get license and registration forms, and information on demerit points and quote trading. Learn about the vessel monitoring system for commercial fishers.

No fishing sign at Australian marina
Permits and exemptions

Apply for Ministerial permits and exemptions, exploratory and development permits, and broodstock and seedstock permits.

About commercial fishing

PIRSA is responsible for the ecologically sustainable development of the state's aquatic resources. We also administer the Fisheries Management Act 2007. This is achieved through:

  • protecting aquatic environments
  • licensing and registering fisheries and fish processors
  • developing fisheries management plans
  • delivering scientific research and innovation
  • increasing trade and investment in conjunction with industry.

In 2022–23 our seafood industry generated $0.48 billion in farmgate revenue for South Australia – learn more in the seafood toolkit.

Digital reporting

PIRSA fisheries and aquaculture is transitioning all quota-based fisheries to online catch reporting. Learn about eCatch or the Commercial Fishing SA app.

Public register

See the public register for information about commercial fishing authorities, licences, registrations, and the people or companies linked to them.

Community consultations

We consult with the community to help inform decisions, policies and programs, and better use of resources. Have your say on open consultations.

Closures

Get the latest on state fishing closures and aquatic reserves, including how they affect your commercial and recreational fishing activity in SA waters.

Seafood Growth Strategy
Seafood Growth Strategy

The Seafood Growth Strategy is a 10-year plan that aims to drive growth and opportunities for a sustainable and profitable seafood sector in South Australia.

Learn more

Fishwatch Hotline

Call the Fishwatch Hotline for information about:

  • rules and regulations
  • licensing and registration
  • reporting shark sightings

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Freecall 1800 065 522 Go to Reporting (Fishwatch)