The task of the Social Fisheries Guard is to cooperate with the State Fisheries Guard in monitoring compliance with the Inland Fisheries Act and the regulations issued pursuant to it.
A Social Fisheries Guard officer enjoys the legal protection afforded to public officials and is required to wear the Social Fisheries Guard insignia and, upon request, present an identity card issued by the county governor.
We speak with Rafał Czyżewski – the newly appointed Commander of the Bolesławiec County Social Fisheries Guard.
What does the Social Fisheries Guard do, and where can it be encountered?
We go to the water and inspect people fishing. We check whether everything is being done in accordance with the regulations. We look for poachers who fish illegally. We maintain order around the water, particularly with regard to littering. We are very strict about this, and such places can be reported to us by phone at 602 476 723 or by email.
Photo from an operation at the Trzebień Mały reservoir:
As for our area of operation, we work at all water reservoirs located in Bolesławiec County and managed by the Polish Angling Association. This also applies to the Bóbr and Kwisa rivers. In the case of private reservoirs, the Fisheries Guard may also inspect such places at the request of the property owner.
What powers does an officer have, and how can they impose a penalty?
A social guard officer has the authority to check whether an angler has a valid fishing licence. If necessary, they may submit a request to the court for a penalty to be imposed. If a person refuses to show a document, the officer may call the police, the State Fisheries Guard or the Forest Guard. The amount of the penalty depends on whether a crime was committed, such as poaching, or an offence, such as catching an undersized fish, failing to make the appropriate entry in the licence or littering. Financial penalties start at PLN 50.
Let us also remember that swimming in water reservoirs managed by the Polish Angling Association is prohibited. Special information signs indicate this.
Who can become a Social Fisheries Guard officer?
There are currently 15 social guard officers in Bolesławiec County. We encourage people to join our ranks. If you are an adult, have no criminal record, enjoy the outdoors and nature, and would like to help protect it, please contact us by phone at 602 476 723 or by email.