Seasonal fishing ban extended on Yangtze River

Fishing of several species will remain off-limits on the Yangtze River for another month, marking the first time since 2003 that the ban has lasted for four months.

The fishing ban, which does not yet include the knife fish, is part of an effort to protect more breeding fish and reduce overfishing, the Ministry of Agriculture said.

This year, the Yangtze closure began on March 1, a month ahead of previous years. The ending date of June 30 remains unchanged. The ban also covers larger areas, including the river's main channel, tributaries and major lakes, the ministry said.