2023-10-20 09:35:51
Fishing control_photo Department of Environmental Protection
Today, October 20, the spawning rest period for salmon begins. During this period, fishing in most rivers is prohibited. The complete ban on fishing will last until November 30, however, even in December, salmon fishing on many rivers is prohibited or only permitted for fishing card holders.
Deputy Director General of the Department of the Environment for Supervision Olav Avarsalu said that last fall alone, as a result of salmon fishing inspections in September, October and November, 33 criminal proceedings were initiated. “The salmon population is vulnerable both in Estonia and throughout the world, so for the survival of salmon and trout it is very important that the fish can spawn safely in the fall. “Poaching during the no-fishing period has a very large impact on fish stocks,” Avarsalu explained.
To curb the activities of poachers, the Department of the Environment is monitoring salmon rivers more closely during the spawning season. “Every person can contribute to the detection of poachers. If you notice suspicious activity along salmon rivers in the fall, please report it to the government information line 1247. Volunteers and colleagues from other departments of the department are good assistants to Department of Environment supervisory inspectors during inspections. We express our gratitude to them,” Avarsalu said.
Restrictions apply on many rivers from September 1 to November 30, and may continue into December. Currently, the only places allowed for fishing are the Narva and Jägala rivers, however, fishing for salmon here requires a fishing card and each fisherman can catch up to two salmon per day, and fishing is prohibited from seven in the evening to seven in the morning. Fishing for salmon and sea trout is prohibited in the Pärnu river system all year round. Information about restrictions on specific water bodies can be viewed on the map in the fishing restrictions web app.
Catching salmon during the prohibition period or in a prohibited manner may be punishable by a fine of up to 1,200 euros. In addition to the fine, the poacher must compensate for the damage caused to the environment. During a ban, when fishing in prohibited areas or when catching fish smaller than the permitted size, the damage to the environment is multiplied by five and amounts to approximately 480 euros for salmon and 150 euros for trout for each individual. If fishing is carried out in a particularly dangerous and detrimental manner, such as using electricity, poison or explosives, tenfold damage to the environment will be required.
Department of the Environment
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