The development of fisheries along the Main Canal Network (OKM) is observed through:
- the use of canal water for recreational and commercial fishing, and
- the supply of fishponds with water along the OKM.
The waters of the OKM designated for recreational and commercial fishing cover an area of about 5,000 hectares. These areas typically have a stable flow regime with low water velocities. Riparian vegetation provides favorable conditions for fish feeding and spawning. On older canals, mainly in Bačka, commercial fishing is present, while in Banat, where most canals are newer, they are primarily used for recreational fishing. Further development of fisheries requires improving the fish population structure by stocking with high-quality fish species and preserving the current water quality in the OKM.
The supply of fishponds with water from the OKM exists, although to a lesser extent than the system's capacity allows. Water is taken from the OKM in necessary quantities through intakes, and used for filling, replenishing, and refreshing fishponds. There have been no major issues in supplying fishponds, except in sections affected by untreated wastewater (Vrbas, Zrenjanin).
In any case, the construction of the OKM has expanded the possibilities for fisheries development in Vojvodina. Development programs for this sector include the construction of new fishponds along the main canals and increased production in existing fishponds.
The primary canal network is capable of supplying fishponds with water throughout the year, but water quality in certain sections remains a limiting factor for this economic activity.
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