Recreational anglers spent more than $500 million in fishing-related expenses on the north coast in 2012.

University of Wollongong researchers found the recreational fishing industry generates more than $3.5 billion dollars for the NSW economy each year.

It also creates more than 14,000 fulltime jobs.

Primary Industries Minister Katrina Hodgkinson said it is a valuable component of the north coast economy.

"More than half a billion dollars was spent on the North Coast just by recreational fishermen just over the past 12 months," she said.

"So it's very important obviously for the economy of the NSW North Coast, and the South Coast and Sydney Metro and the inland region for that matter as well.

"But a very significant amount of money is spent on the North Coast by fishermen.

The minister is also warning anglers Fisheries officers are cracking down on people on North Coast waterways who do not have valid Fishing Fee receipts.

It is the busiest time of year on the region's waterways and anyone caught without their receipt on them could be hit with a $75 fine, or $200 if they have not bought one at all.

Primary Industries Minister Katrina Hodgkinson said the rules apply to almost everybody.

"Everybody except minors, so children under the age of 18 don't need to get one, and there are some other exemptions but they're few and far between," she said.

"So if you're thinking of throwing a line in the water, just go to one of the more than one thousand outlets across NSW and pick up your fishing fee receipt, or you can even do it online."