Albania has intensified efforts to protect one of its most valuable freshwater species, the koran fish, through a strict fishing ban enforced during December and January in the city of Pogradec, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This period coincides with the natural spawning season of the koran, a species that is both economically important and ecologically sensitive, found almost exclusively in Lake Ohrid.
The ban is being actively monitored by the Border Police, in cooperation with the State Police and the Pogradec Fishing Organization, reflecting a coordinated national and local approach to environmental protection. This initiative highlights Albania’s growing commitment to preserving its natural heritage while ensuring the sustainability of traditional fishing activities for future generations.
Why the Koran Fishing Ban Is Necessary
The koran fish (Salmo letnica) is endemic to Lake Ohrid and represents a symbol of the region’s biodiversity. During December and January, koran migrate to spawn, making them particularly vulnerable to overfishing. Any disturbance during this critical reproductive period could cause long-term damage to fish stocks and disrupt the delicate balance of the lake’s ecosystem.
For this reason, Albanian authorities have legally prohibited all koran fishing activities during these months. Throughout December, it is common to see fishing boats overturned and resting along the lake’s shoreline in Pogradec, a visual sign that fishermen are respecting the ban and pausing their work to allow nature to recover.
Increased Awareness and Enforcement in 2024
Compared to previous years, authorities report that compliance with the fishing ban has significantly improved. This positive change is attributed to two main factors: increased environmental awareness among fishermen and the deterrent effect of fines and legal consequences.
Inspections carried out this year have identified only sporadic cases of illegal fishing, a notable reduction from past seasons. Penalties for violations range from administrative fines to criminal prosecution, depending on the severity of the offense. These measures have sent a clear message that protecting Lake Ohrid is a national priority.
Representatives of the Pogradec Fishing Organization have confirmed that cooperation between fishermen and law enforcement has been effective, creating a sense of shared responsibility rather than confrontation.
Impact on the Local Fish Market
One immediate consequence of the fishing ban is the temporary absence of fresh koran fish on the local market. Residents and restaurants in Pogradec are currently experiencing a shortage of freshly caught koran, a delicacy known for its taste and cultural significance.
However, this short-term inconvenience is widely seen as a necessary sacrifice for the long-term benefit of the lake. By allowing the koran population to reproduce undisturbed, Albania ensures that future fishing seasons will remain productive and sustainable.
Authorized Egg Collection and Repopulation Efforts
An important aspect of the conservation strategy is the controlled collection of koran eggs. During the spawning period, 70 licensed fishermen are authorized to collect fish eggs under strict supervision. These eggs are transported to the Lin incubator, a specialized facility dedicated to preserving native fish species.
After being carefully treated and incubated, the young koran are released back into Lake Ohrid during the autumn season. This repopulation program plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy fish stocks and compensating for natural and human-related losses.
The program is considered a success story of sustainable fisheries management in Albania, combining traditional knowledge with modern environmental practices.
Lake Ohrid: A Shared Natural Treasure
Lake Ohrid is not only one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, shared between Albania and North Macedonia. Its unique ecosystem hosts numerous endemic species, making conservation efforts especially critical.
The koran fishing ban demonstrates Albania’s responsibility toward protecting this international natural treasure. By enforcing regulations and supporting repopulation initiatives, the country contributes to regional environmental stability and cross-border cooperation.
A Model for Sustainable Fishing in Albania
The successful enforcement of the koran fishing ban in Pogradec could serve as a model for other regions in Albania facing similar environmental challenges. Balancing economic needs with ecological preservation is not easy, but the results seen this year prove that cooperation, awareness, and enforcement can achieve meaningful change.
As Albania continues to align its environmental policies with European standards, initiatives like this strengthen the country’s image as a responsible steward of nature and biodiversity.
The December–January ban on koran fishing in Pogradec is more than a seasonal restriction—it is a long-term investment in the future of Lake Ohrid, its ecosystem, and the communities that depend on it. Through coordinated monitoring, increased awareness, and sustainable repopulation efforts, Albania is taking decisive steps to ensure that the koran fish remains a living symbol of the lake for generations to come.