Lithuania launches month-long checks on limited fishing

Lithuanian environmental protection officers will conduct intensified checks on limited fishing nationwide for one month from Saturday, LRT reports, citing the Environmental Protection Department.

From August 15 to September 15, officers will carry out raids to check whether anglers are complying with limited-fishing requirements, have the necessary permits and are not exceeding permitted catch limits.

The department said the inspections aim to protect fish stocks and prevent violations in Lithuania’s inland waters.

Violations of limited-fishing regulations and conditions can result in fines of 90 to 170 euros. Fines of 250 to 550 euros apply to violations involving limited fishing for salmon, sea trout, brown trout and grayling.

The department said limited fishing is subject to additional conditions and restrictions. It may be organised to catch protected or specially protected fish species, intensively bred fish, or fish in water bodies where recreational fishing is restricted. It may also involve non-standard fishing gear and methods.

Anglers may carry out limited fishing only if they have an amateur angler’s card or a limited-fishing permit issued by the user of the fishing area.