There are more than 30,000 species of fish in the world Estonian waters are home to about 75 species of fish, most of whom are freshwater fish, semidiadromous (ide, vimba bream) or diadromous fish (salmon, sea trout, eel). Estonian coastal water is inhabited by about 30 marine fish species, but since Estonian coastline is surrounded by brackish water, several freshwater fish species can also be found there.
Strategic purpose of fishery is to ensure that fish populations are diverse and in good condition. It is essential to avoid potential negative impacts of fishing on the ecosystem. Thus, a set of rules (such as minimal landing sizes) must be set. It is also important to make sure that spawning grounds stay intact and spawning fish are not disturbed. In addition, since many fish are known to undertake regular and significant migrations, keeping migration routes open is essential. Fish stocks are in good status, if populations have a natural age distribution and are able to reproduce naturally under current conditions.
Most of commercial fishing is regulated internationally. Calculation of exploitation rates on the Baltic Sea differentiates between highly and less migratory fish. Catch limitations on highly migratory fish (sprat, herring, cod, salmon) are established by the Council of the European Union. Less migratory fish (perch, zander, etc) are managed by states themselves. Fishing opportunities and conditions in Lakes Peipsi, Pihkva and Lämmijärv are agreed upon by the Estonian-Russian Fisheries Commission.
There are three basic divisions of recreational fishing in Estonia. Fishing with one simple hand line is free of charge for everyone. Recreational fishing right has to be purchased if one wishes to fish with more simple hand lines or with other sport fishing equipment. To protect more vulnerable populations there are some additional restrictions. Hence, certain fishing sites, periods and methods require a fishing card. More detailed information can be found in the pocket guide for recreational fishing in Estonia.
In Estonia, fisheries management is divided between four offices:
- Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture develops market organisation systems, awards structural supports and state aid, manages aquaculture sector and is responsible for policy making regarding commercial fishing;
- Ministry of Climate prepares and implements policies on protection and use of fishery resources including reproduction of fish stocks and protection and restoration of spawning grounds and habitats. The ministry also provides permits for scientific research and special purpose fishing;
- Agriculture and Food Board manages commercial fishing by issuing permits for commercial fishing, managing the national registry of fishing vessels and catch accounting;
- Environmental Board provides fishing cards, collects recreational fishing data and carries out monitoring of fishing activities.
Read also the article of State Portal "Recreational fishing and hunting".