Fisheries control

The purpose of fisheries control is to ensure that fishers comply with the provisions on fishing and have the required licences.

The Metsähallitus game and fisheries staff are responsible for fisheries control. The police, the fisheries authority, customs and border control authorities, and fishing supervisors also have the right to control compliance with fishing provisions. They also have the right to seize any gear used for illegal fishing and any catches caught with the gear. The owners and joint owners of waters and holders of fishing rights also have the right to inspect fishing licences. 

If a fisher does not have the licence receipt with him, the authority or person supervising fishing may order the fisher to show proof of the licence. The fisher must present the proof at a police station within seven days of the order. The fishing licence must be paid before fishing is started. Fishing without a licence may result in a fixed fine imposed by the police.