6. Rules and common sense
Permit, closed season, releasing fish and respect for others
The law, in short
- On natural waters (rivers, the Danube, public lakes) you need a recreational fishing permit -- see ANADSPA (formerly ANPA) for the conditions and where it's issued.
- At private lakes you pay the lake's fee and follow its rules (number of rods, whether you can keep fish, opening hours).
- Respect the closed season and minimum sizes -- you'll find them under 'Information', with the official sources.
- Sturgeons, grayling and whitefish are protected all year: release them immediately and carefully.
Releasing correctly (catch & release)
- Wet your hands before touching the fish -- dry hands strip away its protective slime.
- Hold it over a mat, wet grass or the water, never over stones or dry ground.
- Remove the hook with pliers; if it's too deep, cut the line as close to the hook as possible.
- Take a quick photo, then hold the fish in the water, head upstream, until it swims off on its own.
Common sense on the bank
- Leave the spot cleaner than you found it: broken line and packaging kill birds and fish.
- Keep your distance from other anglers and don't cast over their rigs.
- Keep quiet: noise and bright lights at night spoil everyone's fishing.
- Safety: deep water, unstable banks, thunderstorms -- a carbon rod conducts electricity; stop at the first thunder.