If you have chosen a dream fishing accommodation in the Danube Delta at Lebăda Luxury Resort & Spa, you probably want to enjoy a relaxing fishing experience without any hassle.

Before setting off on your fishing trip, it is essential to know whether a border permit is still required for fishing on the Danube.

What does Schengen mean and how does it impact fishermen?

Romania joined the Schengen Area with air and maritime borders on March 31, 2024, and full accession with land borders is expected in the future. But what does Schengen mean, and how does it affect fishing on the Danube?

The Schengen Area is a free movement zone that includes 29 European countries, eliminating internal border controls. For fishermen who love the Danube, this raises an essential question: do we still need a border permit (PG) to fish?

Do you still need a border permit for fishing on the Danube?

The answer depends on where you want to fish! Although Romania is now in Schengen, the Danube is a natural border between Romania and Bulgaria, and border areas are still subject to special regulations.

If you fish only on the Romanian side of the Danube, you no longer need a PG, but you must have a fishing permit issued by ANPA (National Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture).
If you fish in the border area or on the Bulgarian side, the authorities still impose certain regulations, and a PG may be required.
For sport fishing in the Danube Delta, you need a permit issued by ARBDD (Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Administration).

Did you know?

The Danube is the second-longest river in Europe, stretching approximately 2,850 km.
Romania has the longest portion of the Danube among the riparian countries – over 1,075 km.
80% of the Danube Delta is on Romanian territory, making it the largest protected wetland area in Europe.

How to obtain a border permit for fishing?

To obtain a PG for fishing in the border area, follow these simple steps:

Check if you need a PG – consult the website of the Romanian Border Police or local authorities.
Fill out the PG application form – you can download it online or obtain it from the Border Police.
Submit the required documents – ID card/passport and fishing permit.
Wait for approval – the issuance period is usually 3-5 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing in the Danube Delta and the Border Permit

If I am from Romania and fish only in Romanian waters, do I still need a PG?
No, but you must have an ANPA fishing permit.
If I cross to the Bulgarian side by boat, do I need a PG?
Yes, as you are crossing the maritime border. It is recommended to have a PG and comply with border crossing regulations.
What are the risks of fishing without a PG in a mandatory area?
You could receive fines of up to 5,000 RON and have your equipment confiscated.
Do the same rules apply to recreational fishing?
Yes, any type of fishing in border areas must comply with the regulations of the Border Police.

Romania’s accession to Schengen has simplified many things, but the regulations for fishing in border areas remain in force. If you fish only on the Romanian side, you only need an ANPA permit.

However, if you want to fish in border areas, a PG may still be necessary. Make sure you are well-informed in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy a worry-free fishing experience!