Hong Kong was a small fishing village prior to being colonised by the British, and with 235 islands making up the region, the sea and fishing is an important element of day-to-day life.

This page has information on locations, species of fish and rules and regulations for sea fishing and fresh-water fishing, as well as fishing clubs and associations in Hong Kong.

Sea Fishing

The Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has set up a website, HK Fish Net, to educate the public about the diversity of life in Hong Kong's waters. The website has information about the different species of fish that can be found as well as a map. It also runs a Fisheries Education Centre to increase public awareness of the marine environment. Group visits are possible from Tuesday to Friday from 09:00-12:30, and 13:30-17:15. 

• Information for guided visits is available from HK Fish Net: Click here.

It is possible to fish freely in the sea around Hong Kong, including the harbours of Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kwun Tong or Hong Kong Island. Lamma Island and Sai Kung peninsula are particularly recommended sites.

Sea fish species

• The World Wildlife Fund produce leaflets detailing fish found in Hong Kong waters: Click here
• Further information can be obtained from the Hong Kong Marine Biology Association

Permits

For non-commercial fishing in sea waters, there are no quantity restrictions. Rod fishing is allowed year round and no licence is required. However, the World Wildlife Fund is urging Hong Kong to change its position regarding fishing laws as the fish stocks have depleted radically over the last few decades.

Poisoning fish and use of explosives are forbidden. For more information about fishing, contact:

• Hong Kong Marine Department
  e-mail
  Website

Fresh-water Fishing

In Hong Kong there are 17 fresh-water reservoirs where people may fish. Within these reservoirs there are silver, mud and wild carp, plus bass, big head, tilapia, and edible goldfish. The reservoirs are open from 1 September to 31 March.

• For details regarding the reservoirs on Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island, Kowloon and the New Territories: Click here

Permits & Licences

A licence from the Water Supplies Department is needed to fish in Hong Kong fresh-water reservoirs. The licence, available to people over the age of 13, is valid for three years, and may be applied for at any time of the year. It is solely for the use of one rod and line and is for shore fishing only, boats may not be used. No explosives or poisons may be used.

• For information about the fishing licence: Click here

Enquiries can be made in person at a Customer Enquiry Centre. Take proof of identity and money to pay the fee and the licence may be issued immediately. Take it on fishing trips as it may be requested.

Customer Enquiry Centres:

• Wan Chai Customer Enquiry Centre
  At: 1st Floor - Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai (Public transport to Wanchai MTR Station A5 Exit)
  Open: 09:00-17:15
  Website
• Mongkok Customer Enquiry Centre
  At: Ground Floor, 128 Sai Yee Street, Mongkok (Public transport to Mongkok MTR Station D3 Exit)
  Open: 09:00-17:15
  Website

It is also possible to apply by post to the Water Supplies Department at the addresses above. Send the following with the application:

• contact details
• a copy of proof of identity
• a cheque made out to, "The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region"
• a stamped addressed envelope; include "Application for Fishing Licence" on the envelope

Catch restrictions

Per day, anglers are not allowed to catch more than:

• two black bass over 36cm
• two snakeheads over 30cm
• no more than two fish of any other species over 10cm in length

Black bass less than 36cm, snakeheads less than 30cm long and any other species less than 18cm must be released back into the water

Hong Kong Fishing Clubs & Associations

• Hong Kong Amateur Fishing Society Ltd
  At: Flat D 15/F Lucky House, 18-24 Jordan Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong
• Mandarin Sports Fishing Club (a club for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts)
  At: 6 Hillier Street, Central, Hong Kong
  e-mail
  Website

Further Information

• The Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD)
• HK Fish Net

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