Abundance of sardines is being experienced in Bandırma.

In the district of Bandırma in Balıkesir, there is an abundance of sardines at the Bandırma Fish Market operated by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality. Sardines, a seasonal fish, are being sold at 200 Turkish Lira per kilogram at the stalls in Bandırma, and they have become the most preferred fish by the public. During the fishing ban period, sardines are the most commonly found fish. In addition to sardines, the Bandırma Fish Market, which is the most important fishing center in Southern Marmara operated by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality, also offers horse mackerel, anchovy, whiting, trout, sea bream, and sea bass at the stalls. Fisherman Barış Deniz, who has been in the fishing industry for many years, stated, ‘Due to the fishing ban, small fishing boats are going out to sea at the Bandırma Fish Market. Sardines, the seasonal fish, are available at the stalls. Sardines are sold at 200 TL per kilogram. Sea bass is sold per piece at 120 TL for small, 175 TL for large, sea bream at 120-175 TL per piece, horse mackerel, anchovy, whiting, trout at 200 TL per kilogram, and mullet at 250 TL per kilogram, awaiting buyers. Our citizens mostly prefer the seasonal fish, sardines.’ Ali Çakıroğlu, the owner of Çakıroğlu Fisheries at Bandırma Fish Market, said, ‘The ban on purse seine fishing will end as of April 15, 2023-2024. Until September 1, small fishing boats will continue to catch fish in the Bandırma and Erdek Gulfs and bring them to the Fish Market. Sardines are coming to the Bandırma Fish Market. Sardines, which are in season, are the most consumed fish. Sardines are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The seasonal fish, sardines, can be grilled or baked. The price ranges from 100 to 200 TL per kilogram. I invite our people to eat fish.