Changes to Fishing and Spearfishing Rules Implemented in Northern Cyprus

The Council of Ministers of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has approved amendments to certain provisions of the Regulations on Fishing Permits and Sustainable Use of Fishery Resources. The new fishing rules are already in effect.

This information was provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

According to the new rules, amateur fishermen can now use a maximum of four fishing rods in freshwater bodies, using anchors or floats, with a limit of three hooks per rod.

The amendments also address the use of longer bottom fishing rods, which are now produced in series in the seas, taking into account the equipment available in Northern Cyprus. Amateur fishermen are allowed to use up to four rods, with a maximum of twenty-one hooks.

Changes also extend to spearfishing. In particular, in accordance with the requirements of the TRNC Hunting Federation and recreational fishing associations, individuals under the age of eighteen are permitted to dive alone with a buoy, but only with permission and accompanied by an adult.

Furthermore, confusion regarding the prohibition of shore entry with firearms for spearfishing has been clarified. This new regulation aims to prevent collisions between fishermen and mitigate potential property losses.

Amateur fishermen are also permitted to catch Akanamutta (Lampuka) without restrictions on weight and quantity, provided they adhere to length restrictions for other species such as Lionfish, Gobene, Tombik, and one type of tuna (Euthynus alletteratus).

To prevent economic losses for professional fishermen, the use of nets with a mesh size of 34 millimeters or larger (17 inches in fishing terminology), used in tuna fishing, is allowed from February 1st to April 30th.

Additionally, the use of 'misan' nets (also known as sting nets or mollusk nets) with a mesh size less than fifty-six millimeters has been permitted, which were previously banned due to requests from the Güzelyurt region.

For biological reasons, a two-month ban on catching grouper and lagos has been extended.

• From May 1st to June 30th, the hunting of grouper and lagos (Epinephelus ssp.) using amateur (sport) fishing gear is prohibited. Additionally, during this period, the use of any types of 'baragadi' (a fishing method using long lines and multiple hooks) in water bodies less than 40 meters deep, and the use of hooks smaller than 11.75 millimeters, is prohibited, as stated in the document.

Read also: where to buy fishing gear in Northern Cyprus and what fish can be caught there, as well as the best fishing spots on the island.