In 2022, the government approved regulation changes for fishing in Bhutan. Now, Bhutan’s Departments of Tourism and Forests and Park Services are developing exciting new nature-based tourism opportunities that includes recreational fishing throughout Bhutan.
Bhutan has now opened their rivers to the international angling world!
WHAT IS RECREATIONAL FISHING?
Recreational fishing (often referred to as angling) is the act of fishing to catch fish as an outdoor activity.
There are two main types of angling techniques: Fly fishing and Spin casting.
FLY FISHING
Fly fishing uses a fly (a light-weight lure) to catch fish.
Flies are cast using a fly rod, a fly reel, and specialized weighted fly line. The light weight of the fly requires a casting techniques that is significantly different from other forms of angling.
Fly lures resemble invertebrates, fish, or other aquatic food organisms found in nature.
WHY FISHING IN BHUTAN?
Did you know that fishing is the second most popular outdoor recreational activity in the world? Only jogging is more popular. Did you also know that recreational fishing plays a big role in supporting local economies and driving conservation actions?
Bhutan’s New Recreational Fishing Program will tap into both of these roles.
CONSERVATION BENEFITS
Fishing provides an outdoor experience that immerses people in nature. Life underwater is hidden, yet when a native, wild fish is caught, we get to see a glimpse of that life. With catch-and-release fishing, when we release a healthy fish back into the water, we have a direct connection to our conservation actions.
Worldwide, recreational fishing has been a driving force for conservation because anglers and fishing guides understand that good fishing depends on clean water, sustainably managed fish populations, and protecting the aquatic habitat. Many anglers directly support conservation projects because they understand this connection.
By following, promoting, and teaching responsible fishing practices, anglers can promote the importance of healthy rivers for fish and for people (go to the Best Fishing Practices link to learn more about this: Link)
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Fishing and associated fishing trips directly impact the economy through fishing license sales, hiring fishing guides, purchasing equipment, transportation, hotels, food, and restaurants.
Under the new regulations, all anglers, whether they are Bhutanese or foreigners, need to purchase a fishing license. These funds directly support the Bhutanese economy.
Community-based ecotourism is one of the benefits of recreational fishing. Riverside communities that provide support and cultural services for fishing trips can improve the lives of both fish and people.
In addition, all anglers are being asked to contribute to a Conservation fund and a Community Fund. See this link to learn more.
FOR THE RECREATIONAL ANGLING PROGRAM BE SUCCESSFUL, IT IS IMPORTANT FOR EVERYONE TO FOLLOW THE REGULATIONS. Regulations are put in place to protect fish and fish populations.
• Fishing regulations are split into Mahseer Waters and Trout Waters. In both of these types of waters, rivers are classified as either Normal or High-End Waters. Regulations differ within these categories.
• In all High-end Mahseer and Trout waters, all fishing is catch-and-release. This means that fish must be released quickly and in good health.
• All non-Bhutanese anglers need to hire a certified fishing guide. This is especially important for the safety for foreign anglers.
• Everyone needs to purchase a fishing permit. There are different kinds of permits for both Bhutanese and non-Bhutanese.
• In all High-end Mahseer and Trout waters, only single barbless hooks are permitted.
• No bait of any kind is allowed. Only artificial flies and lures can be used.
• The angling season is closed in all trout waters in November and December. The Angling season for Mahseer is closed in June, July, and August.