Georgia: The Environmental Supervision Department of the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture has detected and stopped illegal fishing activity on the Jhinvali reservoir in Dusheti municipality. The violators were using a 120-meter-long house net from an inflatable boat to catch up to 15 kilograms of different fish species.
The employees of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti Regional Authority intervened and confiscated the inflatable boat, the illegal fishing gear, and the illegally obtained fish. According to the Georgian fishing regulations, they also issued relevant documentation and fines against the violators.
Illegal fishing is a serious problem that threatens the biodiversity and sustainability of the aquatic resources in Georgia. The Environmental Supervision Department conducts regular inspections and patrols to prevent and combat illegal fishing activities in the freshwater and marine areas of the country.
The department also cooperates with other agencies and organizations, such as the Department of Natural Resources, the Coastal Resources Division, and the Georgia Wildlife Federation, to raise awareness and educate the public about the importance of responsible fishing practices.
The Zhinvali reservoir is a hydroelectric dam on the Aragvi river, about 70 kilometres north of Tbilisi. The reservoir is a popular recreational fishing, boating, and camping destination. The reservoir hosts various fish species, such as carp, trout, catfish, and perch.
The reservoir is also part of the Port Community System (PCS). This electronic platform connects various port management systems and ensures a secure and fast exchange of information between the stakeholders.
The Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture urges the public to respect the fishing regulations and to report any illegal fishing activities to the Environmental Supervision Department or the nearest law enforcement office.
The ministry also reminds the public that fishing methods such as noodling, magnet fishing, and spearfishing are only allowed in certain seasons and areas and require a sport fishing license.
