A 57-year-old Ukrainian citizen who illegally caught a huge, legendary catfish from the Balaton pond in Warsaw’s Gocław district has been detained and then expelled from Poland.
The incident took place at the end of May 2026. The man, together with others, rented a pedal boat, caught a gigantic fish (approx. 173–183 cm long), which according to anglers had lived in the pond for about 20 years, put it alive into the trunk of a car and drove away.
Illegal Fishing During the Closed Season
The catch took place during the catfish’s protected season (lasting until May 31), and also involved the use of a floating vessel – which is prohibited. The men’s behavior outraged local anglers and residents, and footage of the incident quickly spread across social media.
Officers from the Warsaw VII District Police Station quickly identified the perpetrator. The 57-year-old was detained in Praga Południe. After procedural actions and an administrative decision, the man was expelled from the territory of Poland.
The case caused a huge stir online. Many people stress that the catfish was something of a „mascot” of Gocław and a local legend. Internet users write about a lack of respect for Polish nature and rules.
Source: tvn24
