Fishermen returning from the first day of the fishing season yesterday voiced optimism about the new season despite the day's disappointing catch.

Fishmongers gathered in Kumkapı, an area of Istanbul famous for its fish restaurants, in the early morning to purchase the season's first catch from the returning fishermen; however, adverse weather conditions resulted in most vessels returning empty-handed.

Despite the catch, many fishermen told reporters they were optimistic about the new season, expecting a windfall in bonito, bluefish and anchovies in particular.

Transport Minister Binali Yıldırım had complained about the lack of fishing and fish consumption on the eve of the start of the season.

“We are 32nd worldwide in fish production,” said Yıldırım. “It is not fitting for a country with such water potential to be 32nd.

 “We will catch a lot of fish, and we will make our people love to eat fish,” he added.  

In 2003, Turkey's fishermen caught 627,000 tons of fish, which increased 24 percent to 772,000 tons in 2007 – a disappointing amount according to Yıldırım. In a country with such extensive access to the oceans, “772,000 tons of fish is nothing. We have to increase this yield.” Adding to the minister's disappointment, 140,000 tons of the 772,000 tons were farm-raised fish.

“If we have brought ship-building up to fifth worldwide from 23rd, then it is the fishermen's duty to bring fish production up to 10th from 32nd,” he told reporters.

“Like in all fields, we have to conform our fishing industry to EU standards,” said Yıldırım. However, certain items, like opening up cabotage rights to the EU, can be delayed for the benefit of our people.”

Yıldırım also complained about the lack of fish consumption in Turkey, saying, “The amount of fish consumed per person worldwide is 15 kilograms, it is seven in Turkey. In Europe, the number is even higher at 22 kilograms."