FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Here are the questions most often asked by beginners and experienced anglers alike: about rules and the law, safety on ice and water, tackle and the catch. The answers are short and general. Where a question concerns specific bag limits, closed seasons or minimum sizes, we tell you where to find them rather than quoting figures that depend on the region. Legal answers describe the rules in Russia; elsewhere, check your local fishing rules and licences.
The question "how many can I keep" has a precise answer. It is written in the fishing rules for your area, not in other people's advice.
How this section works: a question is included if anglers ask it often and it can be answered from the law, the rules or official guidance without made-up figures. We do not give individual advice here.
Rules and the law
Which law governs recreational fishing?
In Russia, Federal Law No. 475-FZ of 25 December 2018 On Recreational Fishing, in force since 1 January 2020. Specific limits and bans are set by the fishing rules for each fishery basin. Other countries have their own laws.
Can I fish with a net?
In most Russian regions, nets are prohibited for recreational fishing. Exceptions exist for the North, Siberia and the Far East, where registration is required. Details are in the law and the basin fishing rules.
Where can I find bag limits and closed seasons?
In Russia, in the fishing rules for your fishery basin, approved by the Russian Ministry of Agriculture. They also list areas where fishing is restricted, including during spawning. Elsewhere, check with your local fisheries authority.
Can I release a fish I have caught?
Yes, under Russian law a live fish may be released unless the fishing rules say otherwise. Do it gently: wet hands and quick unhooking.
Safety
What ice is considered safe?
According to EMERCOM of Russia guidance, at least 7 cm for one person and at least 12 cm for a group. Ice is thinner near the banks, over current, where streams flow in, and near reeds and snags. Carry an ice chisel, a rescue rope and ice picks, and do not gather in a group in one spot.
What should I do if a thunderstorm starts?
Stop fishing. Spinning rods and other carbon fibre rods conduct electricity: pack them away, move away from the water and, if you are in a boat, head for the shore.
Do I need a life jacket in a boat?
Yes. When fishing from a boat, the life jacket should be worn, not lying beside you. It keeps you afloat even if you are tired or cold.
How do I avoid hypothermia?
Dress in layers, bring spare socks and gloves, do not sit still in the wind and drink something warm. If someone is very cold or soaked, stop fishing; if life is at risk, call 112 in Russia or your local emergency number.
Tackle and catch
What tackle should I buy to start?
For your first trips, a simple float rod with spare hooks, line, weights and floats will do. We do not name brands or give rankings: choose tackle to suit the method.
Why do I keep losing fish?
Common causes are blunt hooks, a harsh strike, a drag set too tight and rushing the fight. Keep a diary to work out exactly where you are losing fish.
What is a barbless hook?
A hook without a barb on the point. It is easier to remove, so it is gentler on fish you plan to release.
Do the general rules apply at a commercial fishery?
Fish farms and commercial fisheries set their own conditions: what you may catch, how much you may keep and which tackle is allowed. Ask the fishery in advance.
Related sections
- Beginners
A step-by-step article for those just starting out: tackle, where to fish, rules and safety.
- Tackle and gear
Rods, reels, terminal tackle and safety gear: what each is for and how to choose without rankings.
- Competitions
How angling competitions usually run and what to check in the event regulations. Also home to our article catalogue.
Sources
- Federal Law No. 475-FZ On Recreational Fishing
- Fishing Rules for fishery basins (Ministry of Agriculture of Russia)
- Federal Agency for Fishery of Russia (Rosrybolovstvo)
- EMERCOM of Russia: guidance on safety on ice and water
Bag limits, closed seasons and permitted waters are set by the fishing rules for each area, and competition procedures by the rules of the sport and each event's regulations. The Russian rules described here apply in Russia; elsewhere, check your local fishing rules and licence requirements before you go.