What is an electric fishing device? Modern electric fishing installations used by poachers, despite their imposing name, look quite modest. As a rule, it is a small box with a step-up pulse voltage converter from 12-24 V to 300-800 V.

A compact battery is usually used as a power source. A landing net with a metal head, which is the fishing tool, is connected to the electric fishing device, and the second electrode in the form of an exposed wire is lowered directly into the water, at some distance from the net. Fishing typically takes place from a boat, and there are usually two poachers. One of them scoops out the fish stunned by the powerful electromagnetic field from the water, while the second maneuvers the boat with oars.

What harm does an electric fishing device cause to fish? Under the influence of the pulsed electromagnetic field, fish become "stunned" and disoriented in space, and at this moment poachers catch them. At the same time, "electricians" literally wipe out all living things in the water body, and a huge amount of fish dies and sinks to the bottom. Not only ichthyofauna, but also other aquatic organisms suffer. Moreover, even if a fish manages to escape from the influence of the electromagnetic field, it does not pass without consequences for its organism. The powerful electric field has a depressing effect on the reproductive capacity of fish, sterilizing them. Poachers using electric fishing devices cause particular harm during the spawning season; they destroy not only fish but also all the eggs they have laid.

Why is it difficult to apprehend poachers using electric fishing devices? The compactness of the electric fishing installation creates many problems in combating this type of poaching. In case of danger, poachers immediately dump the electric fishing device and the caught fish overboard, trying to appear before inspectors as ordinary amateur fishermen peacefully fishing at dusk. Therefore, State Inspectorate officers have to keep up with the times; modern surveillance and video recording equipment are used during raids, and camera traps are installed in "hot" spots. A hotline is constantly operating to receive signals from the public about instances of illegal fish harvesting. Sooner or later, "electricians" do fall into the hands of inspectors.

Liability for the use of electric fishing gear? Hundreds of articles have been written about the harm caused by the use of electric fishing gear for catching fish. It is hard to believe that poachers are unaware of this, and the fishing method itself is quite technological and requires certain knowledge and preparation. The legislator has taken these facts into account and has tried to punish lovers of electric fishing as severely as possible. According to Article 16.26 of the Code of Administrative Offences, poachers face a fine of up to 30 base units with confiscation of illegal fishing gear for storing electric fishing installations. Similar liability is provided for their accomplices involved in the illegal manufacture and sale of electric fishing gear. For individual entrepreneurs and legal entities, the fine will be up to 200 and up to 500 base units, respectively. If caught red-handed at a reservoir, according to Part 4 of Article 281 of the Criminal Code, "electric" poachers are subject to criminal liability and may face imprisonment for up to 6 years. In addition, poachers will have to pay a huge fine and compensate for the damage caused to nature in a **fivefold** amount.

If you witness illegal fishing using electric fishing gear, do not remain indifferent, report the incident by calling one of the following numbers:

+375 29 291-42-55

+375 33 370-69-57

+375 33 625-88-46

+375 29 715-11-73

Protect nature…..