Inspectors remove 1.23 kilometres of illegal nets near Salacgrīva

Latvian environmental inspectors removed 14 illegal fishing nets measuring a total of 1,230 metres from coastal waters near Salacgrīva, freeing all the fish caught in them, LSM reports.

The nets contained five sea trout, two salmon, 30 vimba bream, about 20 kilograms of Baltic herring and 12 flounder. Inspectors released the fish back into the water.

During checks for compliance with seasonal fishing restrictions, inspectors suspected illegal fishing and searched the coastal stretch by boat. They found and lifted the nets from the water.

Fishing with all types of gear is prohibited in coastal waters from October 1 to November 15, except for cases specified in regulations. In October and November, the State Environmental Service also conducts round-the-clock monitoring of rivers where salmon and sea trout spawn, working with the National Guard, municipalities and public environmental inspectors.

Residents can report suspected environmental or fishing-rule violations by calling +371 26338800 or using the Vides SOS mobile app.