Turkish fishermen prepare for new fishing season

Turkish fishermen are completing final preparations for the upcoming 2026-2027 fishing season. Following a general fishing ban that began on April 15, the restrictions are set to expire on September 1 in the Black Sea, Marmara, and Aegean seas, and on September 15 in the Mediterranean.

Approximately 1,500 commercial vessels, including purse seiners and trawlers, are preparing to return to sea. Maintenance work on engines, decks, and nets is currently underway in various ports. Industry representatives express high optimism for the new season, particularly regarding the abundance of bonito (palamut) in the Black Sea, anchovy (hamsi) in the Marmara, and sardines (sardalya) in the Aegean.

Mehmet Aksoy, Vice President of the Central Union of Seafood Hunters and Producers, noted that while the industry provides significant economic contributions to millions, fishermen face challenges such as rising fuel and equipment costs. Additionally, there is a focus on ensuring sustainable fishing practices to protect juvenile fish populations.