Special situations

I'm a foreign citizen / tourist. Which permit do I need?

The same free ANADSPA (formerly ANPA) permit, from the portal -- an ID document (passport) is required instead of a Romanian personal number; the portal also has an English interface. Associations issue day permits to non-members too. In the Delta, the ARBDD permit and access are obtained the same way as for Romanians.

I fish from my own boat. What else do I need?

The boat must be registered (leisure boats with the port's Harbour Master or, for small boats without an engine, at the town hall), with life jackets on board. On the Danube and in the Delta you need the boat access permit (ARBDD) and, on border waters, the Border Police's approval. Some associations and parks forbid fishing from a boat on certain lakes -- see the water's page.

Spearfishing (with a speargun)?

Law no. 176/2024 has no rules for spearfishing: recreational fishing is done only with a rod or a casting rod (art. 29 para. 1), and fishing with a spear, by harpooning or with other unauthorised gear is a criminal offence (art. 56 letter f, 2 to 5 years in prison). If in doubt, ask ANADSPA beforehand.

I'm taking part in a fishing competition.

Competitions are organised by associations/clubs listed in the Sports Register; the organiser gets authorisation for the area and period (it can even be during the closed season, with special approval, usually catch & release). You need your ANADSPA permit and usually your athlete card/competition registration; catches are weighed and released.

Can children fish?

Children under 14 can fish without their own permit if accompanied by an adult with a valid permit (their catch counts towards the adult's limit). From 14 they can get an ANADSPA permit (free) with a parent's consent; many associations have free or discounted permits for pupils.

People with disabilities and pensioners?

The ANADSPA permit is free for everyone. Associations and forestry directorates usually offer discounts or fee exemptions for pensioners, people with disabilities, pupils and students -- ask when you get the permit; they aren't automatic.

I fish at a private lake. Do I need anything from the state?

No. A private lake sets its own rules and fee. An ANADSPA permit doesn't replace the lake's fee, nor the other way round.