Access to Fishing along Waterways

Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) what is the current percentage of waterways that are set aside for recreational fishing; (b) what plans are there to open up the waterways for anglers in future; (c) what are the issues arising from irresponsible anglers and how does the Ministry regulate them; and (d) how does Singapore compare with global cities in terms of access to fishing along waterways.

Fishing is allowed at designated sites at Pang Sua Canal and at 10 reservoirs, including Bedok Reservoir, Jurong Lake and Lower Peirce Reservoir.

Safety is the paramount consideration. Water levels in our waterways rise rapidly during a heavy storm. On dry days, water is confined to a deeper central channel. As park connectors are often adjacent to waterways, careless fishing along the waterways may pose a risk to others. Protecting the quality of our water supply is another consideration. For example, PUB also prohibits fishing with live baits at our reservoirs. Finally, PUB needs to ensure that our water bodies are shared for multiple recreational uses, such as kayaking and dragon-boating, so that more Singaporeans can enjoy our clean and beautiful waters. These considerations also make global comparisons less meaningful as we are a densely urbanised city-state facing unique conditions with regard to water supply and security given our geography and history. Nevertheless, PUB will continue to review the sites that we can open up for public fishing.

Daily surveillance is conducted to curb illegal fishing activities. Those caught fishing outside designated areas or using live baits will be issued a composition fine of $50 on their first offence and $200 on their second offence. Offenders will be prosecuted on subsequent offences and may be fined up to $3,000. PUB has put up signs along its waterways to remind the public not to fish outside of designated areas. We encourage members of the public to call the PUB hotline at 1800-284-6600 should they spot any illegal and unsafe fishing

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activities. We also appeal to the public to adopt responsible practices and not expose themselves and others to risks by fishing at undesignated places.