Turkey fishing season begins with abundant bonito and varying anchovy prices

The end of the fishing ban in Turkey has brought a variety of seafood to markets in Istanbul. Experts report an abundance of bonito, anchovy, horse mackerel, and sardines. Bonito has emerged as a standout this season, with improved size and flavor, and prices starting around 150 TL per kilogram.

However, anchovy prices show significant variation. While some areas offer anchovies starting at 250 TL per kilogram, prices in certain Istanbul districts can reach up to 600 TL. This price fluctuation is partly attributed to the increased population of bluefin tuna in the Marmara Sea, the Bosphorus, and the Gulf of Izmit. As predatory fish, tuna feed heavily on smaller pelagic species like anchovies, sardines, and mackerel, which can impact the available supply of these smaller fish.

Experts note that improved marine cleanliness due to mucilage action plans and stricter inspections has increased the diversity of small pelagic fish, subsequently attracting larger predator species to the region. To ensure sustainability, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining anchovy quotas and operating advanced biological treatment plants.