Paraguay imposes annual fishing ban to protect aquatic ecosystems
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The Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development (MADES) in Paraguay will begin a fishing ban on 2 November 2026 to protect fish species during their reproduction period.
Adán Leguizamón, the Director of Fisheries for MADES, stated that the duration of the prohibition varies by location. The ban in waters shared with Argentina ends on 20 December, while the ban in waters shared with Brazil continues until 31 January 2027.
The ban prohibits all boat-based fishing for both sport and commercial purposes. It also restricts the use of fishing equipment and the transport or sale of fish products. Authorities aim to safeguard populations of species such as dorado, surubí, and pacú. Officials warned that those who break the rules face severe sanctions, including fines and the confiscation of boats and vehicles. The regulations allow an exception for subsistence fishing from riverbanks by licensed commercial riverside fishers.
These fishers may use a hook, line, or rod but cannot use boats. They are limited to catching five kilograms of fish for personal consumption and are forbidden from catching high-value species like surubí, manguruyú, dorado, and pacú. Businesses like supermarkets and restaurants must declare their current stock to the Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture. These businesses have a period of ten days from the start of the ban to sell their existing inventory before sales are prohibited.
The Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Directorate of Integrated Environmental Enforcement will monitor the rules.
