Leerfish Seasonal Ban
As of April 15, 2025, the seasonal ban on Leerfish (Lichia amia)—also known as Garrick—has officially begun across Türkiye’s coastal waters. This annual restriction, in place until May 15, plays a crucial role in conserving Leerfish populations during their peak spawning season.
Protecting Leerfish During Their Most Vulnerable Time
Leerfish are a powerful, fast-swimming predator prized for their strength and spectacular surface strikes. But like many marine species, they need uninterrupted time to reproduce. That’s why the Leerfish seasonal ban is critical—not just for the fish, but for the future of recreational sportfishing in Türkiye.
From April 15 to May 15, it is strictly forbidden to target, catch, or retain Leerfish in any marine or coastal area. This includes both recreational and sport fishing activities, whether from shore, pier, kayak, or boat.
Key Regulations for Leerfish Fishing in Türkiye (2025)
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing Ban Period | April 15 – May 15 (enforced annually). |
| Daily Catch Limit | 1 Leerfish per angler (outside the ban period). |
| Minimum Size | 50 cm – all undersized fish must be released immediately. |
| Best Practices | Use barbless hooks, avoid live bait during post-spawn, practice C&R. |
Why the Ban Matters
Spawning Protection: April–May is peak spawning time for Leerfish along Türkiye’s coasts.
Population Recovery: Overfishing during breeding seasons can cause steep declines.
Sustainable Fisheries: Seasonal closures help maintain balanced marine ecosystems.
Leerfish, also known as Garrick (Akya in Turkish) are apex predators in their habitat, playing a key ecological role in keeping baitfish populations in check. Their protection during spawning is a direct investment in healthier marine food chains and better sportfishing seasons ahead.
Ethical Practices for Leerfish Anglers
Once the leerfish seasonal ban ends on May 15, anglers can resume targeting Leerfish—but with responsibility. Keep these tips in mind:
Respect Size & Limits: Only keep fish over 50 cm; never exceed the daily limit of 1.
Catch & Release: Leerfish are especially vulnerable post-spawn—consider releasing all catches during this time.
Use Proper Gear: Barbless or circle hooks reduce injury and stress to the fish.
Educate Others: Help spread awareness about the seasonal ban and sustainable practices.
The Thrill of Leerfish Fishing in Türkiye
For those who’ve battled a Leerfish on light tackle, the experience is unforgettable. These coastal hunters are known for their explosive topwater attacks and relentless fight, drawing anglers to the Mediterranean, Aegean, and even parts of the Marmara coast in search of that perfect strike.
Leerfish fishing in Türkiye is not just a sport—it’s part of a broader angling culture that values respect for nature and the pursuit of adrenaline-pumping moments on the water. By observing seasonal bans and ethical fishing practices, we ensure that this tradition continues for years to come.
Let the Leerfish spawn in peace—so we can enjoy their powerful runs again soon. Mark your calendars: May 15 is when the chase begins again.
