Restrictions coming for anchovy fishing

Ramazan Özkaya, Chairman of the Central Union of Fisheries Cooperatives, reminded an AA reporter that the duration of two communiqués, which have been in effect since 2020 to balance the protection and utilization of aquatic resources, will expire on August 31.

Stating that work on the new communiqué is ongoing, Özkaya said, "Opinions have been gathered from the sector for our 50-article commercial communiqué, which will be valid for a 4-year period from 2024 to 2028. The new rules regulating commercial fishing for the next 4 years will be determined."

WILL THE FISHING SEASON BE DELAYED?

Pointing out that the start date of the fishing season in Turkey's seas varies, Özkaya said, "Some of our fishermen have expressed that they are negatively affected by the fishing season starting at different times across the country. With the proposed change, the fishing season in all regions of Turkey will begin at the same time. We must take into account the need to preserve fish caught in warm climates like the Mediterranean. Boats must have ice on board."

'PRESSURE ON STOCKS WILL DECREASE'

Emphasizing that they have long been advocating for the introduction of a quota system in fishing, Özkaya added the following:

"The most important issue in our sector is sustainability. The most caught fish in our country's seas is the anchovy. With the new regulation, a quota system will be implemented for anchovy fishing. Exit points will be adjusted for this purpose. It will not be possible to catch more than the determined quota. In this way, price stability will also be ensured. Consumers will be able to consume fish at the same price throughout the season. The catching of fish smaller than the determined sizes will be completely prevented. The pressure on stocks will decrease."

Stating that less fuel will be consumed on boats with the quota system, Özkaya added that this would also increase the income of fishermen.

News Source: 12punto