Ban on crayfish fishing from December 1, 2025: what to expect for anglers and why it is important

Ban on crayfish fishing in Ukraine

From December 1, 2025, a ban on crayfish fishing is being introduced in Ukraine, which will last until June 30, 2026. This decision is aimed at preserving the crayfish population during their mating, egg-carrying, and first molting periods. The ban covers all fisheries water bodies and there are also special restrictions for certain reservoirs.

In particular, from December 15, 2025, to June 30, 2026, the ban will be in effect on:

• Kyiv
• Kaniv
• Kremenchuk
• Kamianets
• Dniprovsk reservoirs

This is an important step for the preservation of natural resources and maintaining ecological balance in Ukraine's water bodies.

Types of crayfish and their protection

Three types of crayfish are found in Ukraine: long-clawed, wide-clawed, and thick-clawed. It is worth noting that the wide-clawed crayfish is listed in the Red Book of Ukraine, and its catch is prohibited throughout the year. Illegal crayfish fishing is punishable by a fine of 3332 hryvnias for each caught crayfish.

Igor Klymenko: 'River crayfish are not only a valuable food product but also an important link in the ecosystem.'

The introduced restrictions aim not only to preserve the crayfish population but also to support the overall ecosystem of water bodies, which is essential for the long-term health of Ukraine's natural resources. Anglers should take these changes into account and prepare for the new conditions that will come into effect in two years.

This ban is part of Ukraine's overall strategy for biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource use. Preserving population species that are at risk, such as the wide-clawed crayfish, highlights the importance of ecological initiatives in the country. It is expected that these measures will positively impact the water body's ecosystem, which in turn may stimulate the development of fisheries in Ukraine in the future.