Kalastusvirastos

Kalastusvirasto is the Finnish authority responsible for managing and regulating fisheries in Finland. Established in 1995, it operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and is tasked with ensuring sustainable fishing practices, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and promoting responsible fish stock management.

The organization oversees both freshwater and marine fisheries, including the regulation of fishing quotas, licensing, and enforcement of fishing laws. It conducts research on fish populations, habitat conservation, and the environmental impacts of fishing activities. Kalastusvirasto also collaborates with local communities, fishermen, and other stakeholders to develop policies that balance economic interests with ecological sustainability.

In addition to regulatory duties, the agency provides educational resources and guidance to anglers, ensuring compliance with fishing regulations and promoting ethical fishing practices. It manages protected areas, such as fish spawning grounds, and monitors invasive species that may threaten native fish populations.

Kalastusvirasto plays a key role in Finland’s broader environmental and fisheries policies, contributing to both national and international efforts to preserve aquatic biodiversity. Its work aligns with broader EU fisheries management frameworks, including the Common Fisheries Policy, while addressing Finland’s unique freshwater and coastal ecosystems.