Beware: This seemingly innocent activity could cost you EUR 500 at Lake Balaton!
Lake Balaton is a popular summer destination not only for beachgoers but also for anglers. However, many are unaware that strict regulations apply to fishing at designated swimming areas, and a seemingly innocent angling trip could end up costing as much as HUF 200,000 (about EUR 550) if rules are ignored.
Where is daytime fishing prohibited?
A government decree (78/2008. IV. 3.) specifies that during the summer season, fishing is prohibited at designated bathing sites from sunrise to sunset. The regulation exists to protect swimmers’ safety, and violations can be treated as misdemeanours, Pénzcentrum reports.
Designated bathing areas are marked with buoys and signs, and anglers must vacate these spots during the day. However, the rule does not apply at night: from sunset to sunrise, fishing is permitted even at designated sites, confirmed by Balatoni Halgazdálkodási Nonprofit Plc. (BHNP Plc.).
Freedom to fish at public beaches, sometimes
The situation is different at unofficial swimming spots, commonly known as public beaches (szabadstrandok). If a shoreline lacks buoys or warning signs, it’s not considered a designated bathing area, meaning fishing is unrestricted both day and night. Anglers are free to cast their lines here, as long as they don’t disturb swimmers.
Still, it’s important to note that classifications aren’t always clear-cut. Take, for example, the Gumirádli public beach (szabadstrand) in Balatonakarattya. Despite its name, it is officially recognised as a designated bathing site, as marked by signs and buoys. Therefore, daytime fishing is prohibited, and violations can result in hefty fines running into the hundreds of thousands of forints.
Local governments have a say, but no new bans for 2025
While local municipalities are technically allowed to designate new fishing restriction zones, they can only do so with BHNP Plc.’s approval, based on Act CII of 2013. According to the fishery management organisation, no towns around Lake Balaton have introduced new fishing restrictions for 2025, so the existing rules remain unchanged this year.
Best to research before you cast
Given that fines can be steep (particularly burdensome during peak tourist season), it’s wise to check in advance whether a particular beach is officially designated as a bathing site. Local authorities or BHNP Zrt. can provide guidance on this.
Fishing at Lake Balaton remains a fantastic leisure activity, but only if you follow the rules. A moment of carelessness could end up costing you the price of several months’ worth of gear: needlessly.
Read more fishing-related news on Daily News Hungary!
Read also:
- Fishing in Hungary: A guide for foreigners, tourists, and expats
- Fishing season in Hungary kicks off with record-breaking catches
Featured image: depositphotos.com
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