Lithuania launches raids to protect salmon and sea trout

LRT reported that environmental protection officers on Tuesday began raids under the “Protect the Salmon” campaign to enforce salmon and sea trout fishing rules. The operation will continue until November 20, the Environmental Protection Department said.

Fish ladders across Lithuania will be monitored to ensure that salmon and sea trout can migrate and spawn. Officers will watch potential illegal fishing locations and use drones and thermal imaging cameras.

They will check whether banned fishing methods or equipment are being used, and whether fishing is taking place in prohibited locations or during restricted periods, said Mantė Ramanauskienė, director of the department responsible for wildlife protection.

All salmon and sea trout caught between September 1 and October 15 must be released back into the water. Anglers will be allowed to keep these fish after the spawning season, from January 1 to April 30.

Last year, environmental protection officers conducted 207 raids, checking 1,847 recreational anglers and 14 commercial fishers. They identified 129 violations, with total environmental damage estimated at 47,500 euros.

Using prohibited fishing equipment or methods carries a fine of 600 to 1,500 euros and confiscation of the equipment. A compensation charge of 970 euros applies for each illegally caught salmon or sea trout. In some cases, vehicles used to transport prohibited equipment or illegally caught fish may also be confiscated.