🎣 Balaton Fishing Rules – Extract (2026)
24-Hour Shore Adult Territorial Fishing Permit
⚠️ Important Notice
This text is a translated summary prepared by our team from the 2026 Balaton Fishing Regulations. It is provided for information only and is NOT an official document. For the official and complete regulations, please always refer to: balatonihal.hu
Valid from: January 8, 2026
Valid waters: Lake Balaton and its connected water system (as defined in the official regulations)
Fishing rights on Lake Balaton and its water system are exercised by Balatoni Halgazdálkodási Nonprofit Zrt.. In addition to national fishing regulations, anglers must comply with the Balaton Fishing Regulations, which may be stricter than general Hungarian rules. Lack of knowledge of the rules does not exempt the angler from responsibility.
General Rules
- By purchasing this territorial fishing permit, the angler enters into a civil law contract with Balatoni Halgazdálkodási Nonprofit Zrt.
- The permit authorizes fishing only.
- During inspections, photo/video/audio recordings may be made if a violation is suspected.
- Any violation of Hungarian fishing laws or Balaton Fishing Regulations may result in immediate withdrawal of the permit.
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If you observe illegal activity, please report it:
SMS: +36 30 350 3333 | Email: halorzes@balatonihal.hu (Anonymous reporting is guaranteed.)
Where You May Fish (Shore Permit)
- Fishing is allowed from the shore, from piers, and while wading.
- The permit also applies to connected waters (exact validity details and maps on the official site).
Equipment & Catch Limits
- Maximum 2 fishing rods may be used simultaneously.
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Daily catch limits:
- Max. 5 fish subject to quantity restrictions (of which max. 3 of the same species)
- Max. 10 kg of non-protected native fish
- A maximum 1 m² bait-fish lift net may be used for collecting bait fish (bait fish max. 15 cm).
Selected Size & Keep Restrictions (Highlights)
Seasonal Restrictions (Highlights)
- Feb 15 – Apr 30: No live bait, dead bait, or artificial lures allowed. Predatory fish may not be kept.
- Apr 1 – May 15 (from watercraft): Fishing only within coastal zones; allowed time: 06:00–20:00. Serious violations may result in a 5-year ban from purchasing Balaton permits.
- Nov 1 – Mar 31: Fishing from boats allowed only 06:00–22:00.
Ethical & Environmental Rules
- Fish intended for release must not be placed on dry ground, concrete, or rocks.
- Fish kept must be killed humanely at the waterside.
- Selling or trading caught fish is strictly prohibited.
- Leave the fishing spot clean after use.
- Metal keep-nets are prohibited.
- Fishing rods may not be left unattended.
Official regulations:
For the complete and official Balaton Fishing Regulations, always consult:
balatonihal.hu
