Migration to the Black Sea: The Hope Route of Fishermen from Tekirdağ

Due to the coastal restrictions and fish scarcity in the Sea of Marmara, the Black Sea has become a route of hope for fishermen from Tekirdağ.

Fishermen from Tekirdağ continue their fishing activities in the Black Sea due to the coastal restrictions and fish scarcity in the Sea of Marmara. Fisherman İdris Şeremet stated that they started fishing for bonito in the Black Sea and then switched to anchovy and horse mackerel. The Black Sea being more abundant and consumers preferring fish from this region make it attractive for fishermen to work there. It was emphasized that the importance of the Black Sea will continue to increase in the remaining part of the fishing season.

Fish Migration

Fisherman İdris Şeremet evaluated the abundant nature of the Black Sea and the restrictions in Marmara, explaining the transition process from fishing for bonito to anchovy and horse mackerel. Şeremet said, “Bonito starts being caught in the Black Sea. Bonito migrates from the Aegean to the Black Sea, spawns, and then the adult fish migrate back to the Aegean. The juvenile fish begin to grow in the Black Sea. We also start fishing in the Black Sea.”

“The Black Sea is more abundant”

Şeremet also mentioned the challenges of fishing in the Sea of Marmara, stating that the coastal restrictions and the decline in fish population have directed fishermen to the Black Sea. Şeremet said, “There are some inconveniences in Marmara. The fish is a bit scarce here. But since the Black Sea is more abundant, people tend to prefer Black Sea fish a bit more. Therefore, we consider working in the Black Sea more appropriate.”

After Bonito, Anchovy and Horse Mackerel

Fishermen plan to continue their fishing activities in the Black Sea by starting to catch anchovy and horse mackerel after the bonito season. Şeremet emphasized the opportunities the region provides for fishing by stating, “After the bonito season ends, we take out the bonito nets and put in the nets for anchovy and horse mackerel. We go back to the Black Sea and continue from there.” Fishermen state that the abundance in the Black Sea compensates for the fishing restrictions and decreasing fish population in Marmara. It is expressed that the Black Sea will continue to be indispensable for fishermen in the remaining part of the fishing season.