From November 1, 2024, a seasonal ban on fishing in wintering pits came into effect in Ukraine, which is due to the need to protect the ecosystem of water bodies and fish populations. These bans will last until next year's spring and summer spawning season, and anglers are advised to be vigilant and familiarize themselves with areas where fishing is prohibited.
Wintering pits are deepened areas of the bottom of reservoirs where fish go to spend the winter. Fishing in such places can disrupt the natural process of wintering fish and significantly affect the state of the population. This can lead to negative consequences for the ecosystem of aquatic resources, which is why government authorities have imposed a ban on fishing in these areas for both recreational and commercial fishing.
The State Fisheries Agency of Ukraine has already published a list of places prohibited for fishing in each region of the country so that fishermen can be aware and avoid violations.
Despite the ban, fishing enthusiasts can still enjoy the hobby, but only in specially designated areas. At the same time, it is necessary to observe several rules:
- Use only winter rods, spinning or float tackle.
- Up to 7 hooks are allowed per angler.
- It is forbidden to use fishing tools with hooks in which the distance from the hook to the tip of the sting exceeds 10 mm.
- You can use both natural and artificial baits.
These simple rules will help preserve the natural balance in the water ecosystem without breaking the law.
What is the penalty for violation?
According to the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses, fines ranging from UAH 34 to UAH 680 are provided for fishing in prohibited places, depending on the severity of the violation.
In case of causing significant damage to the ecosystem or violating the rules of fishing in large volumes, criminal liability is provided in accordance with Art. 249 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. In this case, the violator may be fined from UAH 17,000 to UAH 85,000 or restricted/imprisoned for up to three years.
Fees for illegally caught fish
In addition to fines, violators will also have to pay for each illegally caught specimen of fish in accordance with the fees prescribed in Cabinet Resolution N1042. In particular:
- Silver crucian carp, Czech — 1581 hryvnias;
- Carp (common carp) — UAH 3,706;
- Perch - 3162 hryvnias;
- Pike — UAH 3,468;
- Tovstalob white, variegated - UAH 3,638;
- White grass carp — UAH 3,638;
- European catfish — UAH 5,117;
- Cancer — UAH 3,332;
- Krasnopierka, gossip, gustera — UAH 1,564;
- Common gorse, common piskar — 51 hryvnias.
Thus, violators who illegally catch valuable fish can pay significant sums for each specimen. The most expensive on this list is the catfish, for which a fee of UAH 5,117 is provided for one specimen.
