By Order No. RD 09-391 of 15 April 2026 of the Minister of Agriculture and Food, temporary fishing bans have been introduced during the fish spawning season in order to protect and ensure the sustainable management of fish stocks.
According to the Order, the fishing of various fish species will be prohibited during specified periods and in designated water bodies throughout 2026. In the Bulgarian section of the Danube River, fishing for Pontic shad (Danube shad) is prohibited from 1 to 31 May, inclusive. In the Black Sea, fishing for turbot is prohibited from 15 April to 15 June. Restrictions also apply to other species, including gobies, as well as to spring- and summer-spawning fish in inland waters, with the closed seasons varying according to altitude.
The Order also extends the fishing ban for pike-perch, northern pike, and asp in the Danube River until 31 May. In addition, a complete ban remains in force on the fishing, transport, and sale of sturgeon species in the Bulgarian waters of the Danube River and the Black Sea.
At the same time, recreational fishing is permitted in designated water bodies across the country, including certain sections of the Danube River and inland waters in several regions, among them Ruse Region, provided that all applicable regulations are observed.
Compliance with the Order will be monitored by the Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EAFA). The measure aims to provide optimal conditions for the natural reproduction of fish stocks and to ensure their sustainable use.