A Fishing Ban Comes into Effect Today
As of today, the order temporarily prohibits the catching of fish and other aquatic organisms, is in force. It applies to the Bulgarian waters of the Black Sea, the Danube River and the rivers and lakes in the country. The ban is introduced in stages for the different habitats and species of fish, the aim being to provide them peace of mind during the reproductive period.
However, there will be reservoirs where recreational fishing will be allowed. They are described in detail in the order of the Minister of Agriculture.
Turbot fishing will remain under embargo for the longest time – until June 15. The ban also includes transshipment, detention on board, landing ashore and first sale.
In the period April 15 – May 15, it is also prohibited to catch goby in the waters of the Black Sea with net fishing gear, with the exception of dalyans, in the water areas of ports and bunkers at a distance of 1 km from the coastline.
From May 1 to May 30, 2023, it is prohibited to catch Shad fish (Danube mackerel) in the Bulgarian section of the Danube River.
From April 15 to May 31, spring-summer breeding fish in farms located up to 500 m above sea level should not be disturbed, and for farms located at an altitude of 500 to 1500 m, the ban will apply from May 1 to June 15.
For the entire period of the ban, the use of single-wall nets with a mesh size of less than 36 mm in the waters of the Danube River, bottom gill nets with a mesh size of less than 400 mm in the waters of the Black Sea will not be allowed and net fishing gear, with a mesh size of less than 22 mm in the waters of the Black Sea.