Greater Amberjack Seasonal Ban
As of April 15, 2025, a seasonal ban on Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is in effect across Türkiye’s coastal waters. This month-long restriction, ending on May 15, plays a crucial role in protecting this powerful predator during its key breeding season.
Protecting One of the Ocean’s Strongest Fighters
Greater Amberjack—known for their brute strength and aggressive runs—are a prized target among Türkiye’s offshore anglers. But during spring, these fish enter sensitive spawning phases. To support healthy populations, fishing for Amberjack is prohibited during this period, whether from boat, pier, kayak, or shore.
This seasonal closure is enforced nationwide by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry as part of broader efforts to conserve vital pelagic species.
Key Regulations for Greater Amberjack Fishing in Türkiye (2025)
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing Ban Period | April 15 – May 15 (enforced annually). |
| Daily Catch Limit | 1 Greater Amberjack per angler (outside the ban period) |
| Minimum Size | 30 cm – undersized fish must be released immediately |
| Best Practices | Use circle hooks, avoid targeting spawning aggregations, practice C&R |
Why Amberjack Seasonal Ban Matters
Spawning Season: Amberjack gather in spring to reproduce, making them vulnerable.
Conservation Priority: Overfishing during this time can lead to sharp population declines.
Marine Ecosystem Health: Amberjack are apex predators, essential for ecological balance.
Adhering to the amberjack seasonal ban not only protects the species but helps preserve the integrity of Türkiye’s rich marine environments.
Responsible Amberjack Fishing After the Seasonal Ban
From May 15 onward, anglers can once again target Greater Amberjack—but ethical fishing remains vital:
Respect the 30 cm minimum size limit.
Keep no more than one fish per angler per day.
Support catch-and-release, especially for large breeders and post-spawn fish.
Avoid reef and wreck hotspots where spawning may still be underway.
Amberjack Fishing in Türkiye: A Test of Strength and Skill
From the deep waters of the Aegean to the offshore ledges of the Mediterranean, Greater Amberjack are a top-tier gamefish. Their raw power and stamina make every encounter a true challenge—and a badge of honor for those who land them on rod and reel.
But to keep this challenge alive, greater amberjack seasonal ban is essential. By respecting the ban, anglers ensure that future generations can enjoy the same hard-fighting fish.
Mark your calendars for May 15, 2025! The wait is almost over as the Greater Amberjack season officially reopens on this date. In the meantime, use this time to prepare your gear, plan your next offshore expedition, and explore your favorite fishing locations along Türkiye‘s breathtaking coastlines.
