Main points
- In February, seasonal fishing restrictions are in place on most reservoirs in Ukraine to protect fish in wintering holes.
- Fines for violating fishing rules range from 34 to 680 hryvnias, and for commercial fishing they can reach 85 thousand hryvnias or imprisonment for up to three years.
What can you get a fine for fishing in February / Pexels
Many dedicated fishing fans in Ukraine are not afraid of either snow or winter frosts. However, in February, fishermen should remember about legislative requirements in order to avoid receiving rather unpleasant fines.
Where can't you fish?
In the last month of winter, seasonal restrictions apply to most water bodies in Ukraine, the State Ecological Inspectorate reminds.
The thing is that during the cold season, fish move to the deepest parts of water bodies – wintering holes. There they remain inactive until spring, when the water temperature rises.
To protect fish in winter, Ukraine has strict restrictions in place. Fishing in such areas is prohibited from November 1, 2025, until the start of the spawning season in 2026 .
Fishing is only allowed away from wintering holes. Only certain equipment is allowed:
- winter fishing rods;
- bottom fishing rods;
- altars;
- float rods.
Important! One fisherman is allowed to use a total of no more than seven hooks during winter fishing.
What are the fines for violations?
Violators of fishing rules will face liability in February. You can not only get a fine, but also be left without equipment, which currently costs a lot.
The following penalties are provided for violating the rules:
- disregarding the ban on fishing in the specified places – from 34 to 170 hryvnias ;
- use of prohibited fishing rods and other fishing gear – from 340 to 680 hryvnias .
In the latter case, the fisherman's gear and illegally caught fish are necessarily confiscated.
Moreover, there is also criminal liability for violators:
- For fishing on an industrial scale that has caused significant damage to nature, the fine is from 17,000 to 85,000 hryvnias.
- or faces up to three years of imprisonment (Article 249 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).
What are the fishing regulations?
In addition to legislation, Ukraine has rules for amateur and sport fishing . They regulate the norms of winter fishing, the Kyiv Fish Protection Patrol reminded.
They allow:
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daily catch limit of no more than 3 kilograms of fish and 30 crayfish per person;
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fishing with any fishing rods or spinning rods, but using no more than 7 hooks;
-
catching fish from the shore or from a boat.
Important! It is strictly forbidden to use poisonous, explosive or chemical substances, electric current, firearms, and other fishing methods that significantly harm the environment when fishing.
Where to fish in winter?
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Successful winter fishing largely depends on understanding the behavior of specific fish species. Knowing their habits helps you choose the right location and gear.
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In winter, perch most often stay near snags, underwater irregularities, and ledges. The most active biting occurs in the morning and evening hours.
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Pike is well caught on live bait during the cold season. In February, it often goes to shallow water, where there is more oxygen in the water, which increases the chances of a successful catch.
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Pike perch is most active in the dark. It is worth looking for it at considerable depths and in clean riverbeds, where the current provides favorable conditions.