Main points
- Night fishing during martial law is restricted by a curfew that runs from 00:00 to 05:00, and violations can result in fines or arrest.
- A spring-summer ban on fishing related to spawning has been in effect since April 1, and the duration of the ban depends on the region and reservoir.
Is it possible to fish at night in 2026 / Pexels
With the onset of warm days, many fishermen prefer night fishing. However, under martial law, it has its own peculiarities that are worth knowing in order to avoid fines.
Can I fish at night?
Night fishing has its own special atmosphere and benefits that are difficult to achieve during the day, writes The Environmental Literacy Council.
Many fish species become more active at night. They move into shallower water, search for food more boldly, and are less sensitive to noise. This applies in particular to the following predatory and bottom-dwelling species:
- catfish;
- zander;
- pike;
- bream;
- carp, etc.
Another advantage of night fishing is the absence of heat and crowds. At night, the water is calmer, so you can focus on the process and enjoy fishing.
In addition, fishing under the stars is especially pleasant – the pleasant atmosphere and sounds of night nature allow you to relax and recharge.
However, during the war in Ukraine, a curfew is in effect. In Kyiv, for example, it lasts from 00:00 to 05:00 in the morning. During this time, it is prohibited to:
- to be on the street and in public places;
- to move by transport without a special pass or on foot.
It is not allowed to be on the water during curfew without a special permit. So it is better to finish fishing early so that you are home by midnight and do not risk encountering sanctions.
Please note! Violations are punishable by fines, community service, or even administrative arrest for up to 15 days.
What other restrictions are there on fishing in April?
In addition, fishermen should remember about seasonal restrictions. From April 1, the traditional spring-summer ban on fishing began on most reservoirs in Ukraine, the State Agency of Ukraine for the Development of Land Reclamation, Fisheries and Food Programs reminded.
These restrictions are related to fish spawning and are necessary for their normal reproduction. The duration of the ban depends on the region and the reservoir.
During spawning, fish are very vulnerable and need protection due to their focus on reproduction.
– emphasized the head of the State Fisheries Agency, Ihor Klymenok.
In general, fishing is possible during this period, but with restrictions:
- only from the shore;
- outside the spawning grounds;
- hook gear with no more than two hooks per fisherman;
- or spinning with one artificial bait.
Important! During the spawning period, no vehicles or motorized vessels are allowed to travel, except for vessels of the fish protection authorities. Commercial fishing and spearfishing are also prohibited.
Is it possible to fish on a rented pond?
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In Ukraine, citizens have the right to use water bodies under the terms of general water use. This means that everyone can freely and free of charge relax near the water, swim, boat, and engage in amateur or sport fishing without special permits.
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At the same time, a significant portion of ponds are leased. In such cases, the lessee can set their own rules for using the reservoir, for example, limiting catch volumes or introducing a fishing fee.
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Despite this, even on paid reservoirs, there are privileges for certain categories. Children under 16 years of age, people with disabilities of groups I and II, as well as liquidators of the Chernobyl accident of categories I and II can fish for free (with the appropriate certificate). At the same time, children are allowed to fish independently only from the shore.