Yes, in most parts of Australia, a recreational fishing license is required if you're using a drone like the Aeroo Pro to drop bait, regardless of whether you're fishing from land, boat, or air.
Drone-assisted bait delivery is considered part of recreational fishing, and standard licensing rules apply.
State-by-State Overview:
New South Wales (NSW)
- A license is required for all recreational fishing, including drone bait drops.
- Apply through: Service NSW
Victoria (VIC)
- A Recreational Fishing License (RFL) is required for most adults.
- Learn more at: VIC Fishing License Info
Queensland (QLD)
- No general license is required for saltwater fishing.
- A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is required for certain freshwater areas.
- Details: QLD Fisheries
Western Australia (WA)
- A license is required for specific methods (e.g. rock lobster, freshwater angling, netting).
- No license is needed for general line fishing in saltwater.
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Check: WA Fisheries Licensing
South Australia (SA)
- No recreational fishing license required
- Must follow size, bag, and protected species rules.
- Info: SA Fishing Rules
Tasmania (TAS)
- Inland waters require a license.
- Saltwater (marine) fishing typically does not require a license.
- Details: TAS Recreational Fishing
Northern Territory (NT)
- No license required, but must comply with local size, bag, and area restrictions.
- Info: NT Fisheries
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- A recreational fishing license is required for all inland waters.
- Managed under NSW rules.
- Check: ACT Fishing
Important Notes:
- You are responsible for understanding and following your state's fishing laws.
- Licenses may be checked by rangers or fisheries officers at any time.
- Always comply with drone flight laws under CASA when using the Aeroo Pro.
For more details, refer to your local authority's website or contact their recreational fishing department.