Piracema starts this Sunday (15) in Piauí; Inspection will be reinforced and fines can reach R$100,000

Commercial fishing will be prohibited in Piauí from Sunday (15th), the date that marks the beginning of the Piracema period. The measure, which continues until March 16, 2027, seeks to protect the fish reproduction cycle in the state's river basins.

According to the Secretariat of the Environment and Water Resources (Semarh), teams will intensify inspections of rivers, dams and other strategic points. Educational activities will also be carried out with the aim of informing fishermen, traders and riverside communities about the importance of the closed season.

Subsistence fishing remains permitted, but limited to 5 kg of fish per day, with an additional specimen for registered fishermen.

Anyone caught violating the rules may be fined amounts ranging from R$700 to R$100,000, plus R$20 per kilo of fish.

"We will intensify operations in rivers and dams, with inspection and guidance for fishermen. Piracema is essential for fish to complete their reproductive cycle. Our work is to ensure compliance with legislation and preserve Piauí's fishing resources", said Semarh Inspection Manager, Renato Nogueira.

70 kg of fish were seized in the operation that began in 2025

Around 70 kilos of fish were seized during the Piracema 2025/2026 period in Piauí, according to Semarh. The number indicates a 40% increase in fish seizures, compared to the previous period.

Since November 15, 2025, in addition to being seized, five kilos of fish have been returned to their natural habitat. The teams also collected and destroyed 700 meters of nets and traps and imposed around R$40,000 in fines. One person was arrested for illegal fishing.