All Fish Caught from Lake Sevan Since 2005 Has Been Illegal, Acting Minister Says

Soon after 2005, no legal permits have been issued for fishing any fish from Lake Sevan. This means that all fish caught from Lake Sevan until now has been illegal. This was stated today, July 29, during a meeting with journalists by Vahé Jilavyan, acting Minister of Environment.

“By a government decision, we have already initiated this year’s commercial fishing. We have allowed 200 tons. We already have about 150 applications from along the entire shore of Lake Sevan. Today, contracts will be signed, quantities will be confirmed, after which strict restrictions will be introduced for illegal fishing. Only fishing for the species of trout has been permitted. According to specialists, the resources are very sufficient; 200 tons is a very small number, and the permit is valid until October 1, after which more new permits may be issued,” he noted, adding that there will be 17 points where fishermen will go fishing, and upon their return, they will weigh their catch, which will be recorded.