Digitalization Transforms Recreational Fishing in Russia
New technologies are reshaping how Russians fish, from digital rulebooks to electronic catch journals.
Russia’s Center for Fisheries Monitoring and Communications is expanding its digital services — originally created for the commercial fleet — to millions of recreational fishers. In an exclusive interview with Fishnews, Alexander Mikhailov, the center’s head, described how digital tools are making fishing more transparent, convenient, and data-driven.
The first major step is the full digitalization of recreational fishing regulations through the “Hunting and Fishing Trips” service. Digital rules have already been developed for several regions, and by 2026–2027, the project aims to cover all Russian territories. The data will be integrated into the National Spatial Data System.
Maps will also show fishing areas, water bodies, and active restrictions, but the system’s design is shifting from “what is prohibited” to “what is allowed” — a more user-friendly approach for most anglers. In 2024, a pilot covering ten sites in two regions was successfully tested. Ultimately, the platform will display precise information about which species can be caught, where, and when.
The second innovation is the electronic fishing journal, designed for fishing organizers. Several regions are already testing specialized software that transmits catch data to the Industry Monitoring System in real time.
These digital initiatives simplify life for fishers, make the sector more transparent, and lay the groundwork for a modern, sustainable approach to managing natural resources.
