In Belarus, a seasonal ban on catching European catfish and Chud whitefish is introduced from November 1. This was reminded by the State Inspectorate for Animal and Plant Protection.
The ban on catching catfish will be in effect nationwide from November 1 to March 31. As winter approaches, the fish settle in pits and other shelters, where they spend the cold period almost motionless. In this state, they become easy prey for unscrupulous fishermen, so the restriction should help preserve the population of this species.
Catching Chud whitefish is prohibited from November 1 to December 15. This is due to its spawning period: the restriction should create favorable conditions for fish reproduction.
If a fisherman accidentally catches a catfish or whitefish during the ban, they must immediately release the fish back into the water body, regardless of its condition.
Violation of the seasonal restrictions carries a fine of 10 to 30 basic units — currently this is from 450 to 1350 rubles. In addition, fishing gear may be confiscated from the violator, and they may be obliged to compensate for damage caused to nature.
If illegal fishing results in significant damage, the violator may face criminal, rather than administrative, liability. Significant damage is considered to be damage amounting to 100 basic units or more, which currently stands at 4500 rubles.
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