Turkiye: Bonito is abundant in the Black Sea

The Black Sea is experiencing a surge in bonito fish population this year, providing a welcome source of affordable food for citizens and a profitable opportunity for fishermen. The low prices of fish, in comparison to white and red meat, have led to a surge in demand, with fishmongers struggling to keep up. Fish prices in Samsun are varied, with horse mackerel selling for 40 TL per kilo, whiting for 50 TL per kilo, red mullet for 60 TL per kilo, and bonito for 70 TL per kilo.

This year, the abundance of bonito in the Black Sea is making both fishermen and citizens happy. Bonito, which was not there last year, is gushing out of the Black Sea this year. Until recently, 500-600 grams of bonito were sold for 50 TL per piece, but today, bonitos close to a kilo are offered for sale for 70 TL. While citizens rush to buy fish, which is quite cheap compared to white and red meat, fishmongers have had difficulty keeping up with the high demand. "We are selling fish non-stop" Stating that citizens are buying fish in droves due to the new beginning of the season, fishmonger Onurcan Köse said, "The season has started very well. Citizens are showing intense interest in fish. It is very crowded and we cannot rest from the sales. As can be seen, the front of butchers and chicken shops are empty. There are crowds at fish stalls. Now is the time for fishermen. We are selling plenty of fish during this period. Citizens are also happy with the prices." Citizens who ...