Unusually high number of unlicensed anglers in Pori — gear seizures not an urban myth

Pori’s coastal waters and the Kokemäenjoki river have seen an unusually high number of anglers fishing without permits, according to local fisheries enforcement officers.

Mikko Suutari, fisheries inspector for the Pori Fisheries Region, said unlicensed fishing has risen markedly in recent weeks. While he declined to provide exact figures, he noted that intensified permit checks are uncovering more violations than before.

The mandatory Finnish fisheries management fee applies to residents aged 18–69 who fish with rods or traps. The fee can be as low as €6 per day or €47 annually, with failure to pay risking a €100 spot fine.

“The main reason for non-compliance is carelessness,” Suutari said. “Some people think that fishing a couple of times doesn’t require a permit.” He added that even anglers using simple rods may lack proper documentation, sometimes because automatic direct-debit payments have failed.

Joint patrols involving fisheries inspectors, police and border guards began in Pori this spring. The agencies share intelligence on likely hotspots and also receive tips from the public, Suutari said.

Contrary to urban legend, fisheries officers can and do seize gear from unlicensed anglers, though penalties vary by case. “Most cases end in fines, but we do take everything from large traps down to small handlines,” he said.

Nationally, permit compliance remains high. A 2024 survey by the Central Union of Finnish Fisheries found that only 3% of inspected anglers lacked the required permit. However, the union noted persistent issues with proper marking of traps under the current Fisheries Act.