The recent regulation governing recreational fishing in the port of Pasaia has led to strong discontent among anglers. An association advocating for free fishing has stated that the new rules, published in the Official Gazette of Gipuzkoa, are worse than the previous situation, with the Fishing Federation being the sole beneficiary.
The association, which represents over 180 recreational fishermen in the Basque Country, laments that this agreement has been presented as a solution, when in reality it exacerbates the situation. The regulation establishes restricted fishing zones and a digital pass system, but the association believes this does not improve conditions.
“"Now we still cannot fish on the docks (of San Pedro and Donibane). They have left the Faro promenade for the rest of us, but even there it is limited."
The association criticizes the Port Authority for not listening to them, postponing or canceling meetings until the regulation's publication in the Official Gazette of Gipuzkoa. Furthermore, they view the obligation to obtain an annual federative license as a step backward, as previously a recreational fishing license was sufficient. They argue that this only benefits the Federation, which, in their opinion, does not represent them.
The association plans to present a proposal at their scheduled meeting with the Port Authority. They propose regulating fishing by marking spots on the ground for anglers, similar to practices in other regions like Galicia. They also suggest requiring civil liability insurance and that the Basque Government, responsible for Fisheries Inspection, strengthen controls on fishing quotas, especially during the mackerel season when many external anglers visit.
The association warns that if their proposals are not considered and they are forced to pay a federative license, they would prefer a total ban on fishing rather than the port becoming a private fishing ground.
