Police investigate alleged fishing crime in Kiikala, Salo

The Southwestern Finland Police are investigating an alleged fishing crime that occurred in Kiikala, Salo. In a recent announcement, the police are seeking information and tips to track down the poacher. The fishing inspector reported to the police on Tuesday about an illegal fishing trap discovered in a tributary of the Uskelan River in Salo. The trap contained 32 salmon that had migrated for spawning, six of which were dead, according to the police. The live fish were released back into the water, and the trap was confiscated.

Authorities remind the public that catching and selling protected fish during the closed season is prohibited. Particularly, the use of gear suitable for catching salmon is banned during this period, as salmon are completely protected in the area.

Tips can be submitted to the police via email at [email protected] or by text or WhatsApp at +358 50 411 7655.

Fishing crimes are not frequently addressed in Finnish courts. According to Tarja Koskela, a senior lecturer in criminal law at the University of Eastern Finland, only a few fishing offenses have been prosecuted each year from 2019 to 2023. There have been 3-6 convictions per year for unauthorized fishing during the same period, which includes offenses against species other than fish.

Penalties typically involve an average of 20 daily fine units. Additionally, offenders must pay the state the value of the salmon, estimated at €2,440 per fish. Thus, the poacher in Salo could face a total fine of €14,640 for the six deceased salmon. Fishing for hatchery-raised salmon is prohibited in rivers and streams between September and November.