North Rhine-Westphalia introduces a digital fishing licence

The digital fishing licence replaces the previous paper document with a modern, forgery-proof format that is valid for life. Applications for the new fishing licence can be made from 3 July – either online or in person at the citizens’ office. In future, the digital fishing licence will:

• issued as a debit card with an NFC chip,
• must also be verifiable electronically on a smartphone,
• be valid for life.
  
  

Fishing licence fee

The fishing licence fee will continue to be levied and can be paid, as usual, for either one or five calendar years. The fishing licence is only valid if the fishing licence fee for the relevant period has been paid.

Fishing licences issued before 1 July 2026 remain valid until their normal expiry date. Once they have expired, the following applies:

• You will need to visit the citizens’ advice bureau once to transfer your details to the new system.
• There is no obligation to exchange the shares early.
• Once a fishing licence has expired, it can only be renewed at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, as older documents must be checked for signs of forgery.

Youth fishing licence not required

The current youth fishing licence is to be abolished. Children and young people aged 10 to 15 inclusive will in future be allowed to fish without their own licence, provided that they:

• be accompanied by an adult holding a valid fishing licence
• and carry a valid form of photo ID (identity card, passport or student card).

Important information regarding identity verification

As the new fishing licence does not include a photograph or a residential address, you must carry an official form of photo ID with you at all times when fishing.

Staff at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau are available to answer any questions on 02521 29-3301 or 3302.