Piracema 2026: understand the natural fish phenomenon that changes the rules of fishing in MS rivers

The beginning of the closed season in Mato Grosso do Sul brings changes to the rules for fishing in the state's rivers. The capture of native species is restricted during piracema, but there are exceptions for subsistence fishing, intended exclusively for food and without commercial purposes.

The ban begins this Sunday (1st), in the Paraná River, and on November 5, in the Paraguay River and other state rivers. The closed period ends on February 28, 2027. The rules seek to protect the natural reproduction of fish and preserve fishing stocks.

Piracema is the reproductive period of freshwater fish, characterized by migration upriver, swimming against the current, to reach headwaters and places suitable for spawning and the birth of fry (young fish).

According to the Mato Grosso do Sul Environmental Institute (Imasul), amateur and professional fishing is prohibited during piracema, with the exception of those types authorized by legislation.

Among them is subsistence fishing, permitted to duly authorized professional fishermen and riverside residents. The activity must be intended exclusively for personal consumption, without the possibility of commercialization.

The quota is up to 3 kilos of fish or one specimen per fisherman, respecting the minimum and maximum sizes established for each species.

Subsistence fishing must follow the rules on permitted gear. In the case of riverside residents, the activity can only be carried out without a motorized vessel, that is, on foot or in a rowing boat.

Traders and professional fishermen who have stocks of native fish must present the Stock Declaration within the deadline established by Imasul.

The requirement applies to fresh, chilled or frozen fish, including that intended for ornamental purposes, aquarium hobby or use as live bait. The declaration must be made within 48 hours after the start of the closed period.

In 2026, the deadline ends on November 7th. The document can be sent to Imasul by email at [email protected] or delivered to one of the Military Environmental Police (PMA) units.

Amateur fishermen must carry the Fish Control Guide (GCP), issued by the Environmental Military Police, as proof of origin of the fish, in accordance with the applicable rules.

Undeclared stocks, when presentation of the document is mandatory, may result in the seizure of the fish and fines, according to the legislation.

Fishing during piracema is an environmental crime, according to Federal Law No. 9,605/1998. Punishments vary depending on the offense and may include fines and imprisonment.

Anyone caught fishing illegally will respond in three spheres:

Criminal: penalty of 1 to 3 years in prison;

Administrative: fine of R$700 to R$100,000, depending on the severity and economic condition;

Civil: obligation to repair environmental damage.

In addition, there will be seizure of materials used, such as boat, engine, vehicle and fishing gear. The offender will be taken to the police station in the act.

Reports of illegal fishing can be made by calling (67) 3428-0384 and 181.