Ahmet Mutlu, chairman of the Eastern Black Sea Fishermen's Association, said they are awaiting the opening of the new season with great excitement and hope, as reported by the Anatolia news agency. He also noted that he expects this season to be beneficial for them.“The clients can buy more reasonably priced fish this season. There will be a new fish-packing method preventing fish from being crushed and providing more hygienic products. The ministry set a standard weight of the packages so only 12 kilograms of fish are allowed to be placed in one package,” said Mutlu, commenting on the new fishing regulations by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. Mutlu said the steps taken by the ministry help supply higher-quality products to the market.
Adnan Akgün, who has been fishing in the Black Sea region for 20 years, stated that they are ready for the new season, adding that he will start the season in Sinop for bonito. “Fishmongers have many problems. Some people who must take care of their family will spend at least three months far from home. If the season is a good one, that will make all of us happy,” said Akgün.
Akgün noted that fishermen have spent much to be ready for the upcoming season and said the last season was very bad. “All of my friends have started this season with debts. The cost of repairing nets and vessels is very high. For a new start in this sector, one should have TL 100,000. We are very hopeful for this season, especially for bonito and anchovy,” added Akgün.
