São Paulo implements Piracema fishing ban to protect native species

The Piracema fishing ban for the 2026/2027 season will begin on November 1, 2026, and remain in effect until February 28, 2027, across the state of São Paulo. The measure is designed to protect the reproductive cycles of native fish species as they migrate to the headwaters and upper reaches of rivers.

In regions such as Votuporanga and Fernandópolis, restrictions apply to the Paraná River Basin, including tributaries of the Grande and Paraná rivers. The Environmental Military Police have launched Operation Piracema 2026/2027, which consists of three stages: preventive actions through October 31, intensified enforcement during the closed season, and monitoring in March 2027.

Catching native species, including dourado, pintado, and curimbatá, is strictly prohibited. However, fishing for exotic or non-native species such as tilapia, tucunaré, freshwater corvina, and carp remains permitted under specific rules. For amateur and sport fishers, the maximum quota is 10 kilograms plus one specimen of permitted species. Fishing is also entirely banned in specific breeding areas like marginal lagoons, sections near dams, waterfalls, and rapids.

Violators face administrative and criminal sanctions, including the seizure of boats, nets, and equipment. Fines range from R$ 700 to R$ 100,000, with additional charges of R$ 20 per kilogram of seized fish.