Anglers Beware: Fines Up to NT$150,000 for Fishing in Pinglin Stream from October Onward

▲ Some protected stream fishing areas in Pinglin District will close starting October, and illegal fishing can result in fines of up to NT$150,000. (Photo / Courtesy of New Taipei City Government website)

Reported by Chen Rui-zhong / Compiled by staff

The New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau stated that certain sections of Pinglin District’s stream conservation zones, which had been open for summer fishing since June 1, will cease to be accessible as of the end of September. Therefore, the public is advised not to fish from October onward, as doing so would violate the Fisheries Act, with potential fines of up to NT$150,000.

Stream fishing is one of the outdoor activities loved by many. The bureau explained that to allow the public to enjoy the fun of stream angling during the summer, certain areas — including the Gupoliao Stream, Sidu Stream, Jianshanhu Stream and their tributaries, as well as sections of the Beishi Stream and Yediqiu Stream in Pinglin District — were opened for fishing from June 1 to September 30. With the end of the open season approaching, the bureau reminds the public not to fish during non-designated periods. Those caught fishing illegally may be fined between NT$30,000 and NT$150,000 under Paragraph 6, Article 65 of the Fisheries Act.

According to anglers, Pinglin is one of the popular fishing spots among stream fishing enthusiasts, where common catches include stone moroko, mountain stream fish, sweetfish, and mullet. Once the fishing ban takes effect at the end of October, they plan to move to other permitted locations to avoid penalties.

The bureau also noted that a total of 12 districts and 52 streams across New Taipei City are under stream conservation and fishing ban measures. The public is encouraged to report any illegal overfishing activities. Successful reports are eligible for a reward of NT$2,000 per case.