Act No. CII of 2013 concerning fisheries and the protection of fish.

This Act sets out the rules for the management, conservation, and economic utilization of Hungary’s fish stocks. Its primary objective is to ensure the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems while regulating the rights and obligations associated with both commercial and recreational fishing. It defines fish as a national treasure and establishes that all living aquatic resources in natural waters are the property of the state until they are legally captured.
The Act introduces a system for the allocation of fishing rights, primarily through the designation of "utilization rights" granted to specific entities for defined water areas. These rights are typically awarded for 15-year periods, during which the holder is responsible for the ecological maintenance of the water body, including mandatory fish stocking and the prevention of poaching. The Act distinguishes clearly between recreational fishing, which is categorized as a leisure activity, and commercial fishing, which is subject to stricter quota systems and professional requirements.
The Act mandates the possession of a state fishing exam and a valid state fishing certificate as a baseline for legal operation. It establishes the National Fishery Database, which tracks catch data, stocking activities, and the registration of authorized anglers in order to monitor the health of fish populations and adjust management strategies in response to environmental changes or overfishing risks.
The Act outlines strict environmental standards aimed at preserving natural spawning grounds and preventing the introduction of invasive species. It grants fishery inspectors and state-employed guards the authority to verify permits, inspect gear, and seize illegally caught fish or prohibited equipment. The final sections of the Act establish a system of penalties and fines for violations such as fishing during closed seasons, exceeding bag limits, or utilizing prohibited methods like electric or chemical fishing.