The Republic of Belarus has over 10,000 lakes and 20,000 rivers, the majority of which are located in the Vitebsk region.
The inspections for the protection of fauna and flora of the Vitebsk region regularly conduct field activities to identify and suppress violations of environmental legislation on water bodies. During their surveys, inspection officers detect cases of citizens using prohibited fishing gear. These include fishing nets, weirs, traps, etc.
Lovers of this so-called "fishing" should be aware that the use of prohibited fishing gear entails administrative liability in the form of a fine ranging from 10 to 30 base units, with confiscation of the fishing gear and other items used as instruments or means of committing the said violation, or without confiscation. In case of illegal extraction of fish or other aquatic animals, the offender is obliged to compensate for the damage caused to the environment in accordance with established rates. If the damage amounts to 100 base units or more, criminal liability may arise.
Furthermore, being present in fishing grounds or the adjacent territory within a distance of up to one kilometre from the shoreline of fishing grounds with prohibited fishing gear entails administrative liability in the form of a fine ranging from 5 to 30 base units.