Turkey fishing season begins with high yields and market price concerns

The 2026-2027 fishing season has officially commenced across Turkey, marked by ceremonies in coastal regions such as Mersin, İskenderun, and Adana. Following the end of the five-month ban, fishermen have returned to the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Officials report a productive start, with high volumes of anchovy (hamsi) and bonito (palamut) being caught.

In the Black Sea region, specifically Trabzon, the abundance of bonito has led to market volatility. Ahmet Mutlu, President of the East Black Sea Fisheries Cooperatives Regional Union, noted a significant price gap where fish is sold to fishermen for 30-40 TL but reaches consumers at 100-125 TL. He has proposed a temporary fishing halt of several days to help stabilize market prices.

In Ankara, the Wholesale Fish Market is seeing high activity, with officials emphasizing the importance of fresh fish consumption. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has updated regulations regarding fishing tools, minimum size limits for species like horse mackerel, and prohibited species to ensure ecological sustainability. The sector remains a vital economic driver, with Turkey having recently surpassed 1 million tons in total aquatic production.