Grouper Fishing Ban Comes into Effect in Northern Cyprus

The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources of the TRNC has announced that fishing for dusky and white groupers is prohibited from May 15 to July 15.

The ban has been introduced under the “Regulation on Fishing Permits and the Sustainable Use of Marine Resources.”

During this period, professional fishers are also prohibited from using baragadi—a type of long fishing line with multiple hooks—in waters shallower than 40 meters.

Additionally, the minimum legal catch size for both grouper species has been set at 45 cm, and must be strictly observed.

Violations of these rules will result in a fine equivalent to one month’s minimum wage, in accordance with the TRNC Fisheries Law.

“In this process, it’s essential that restaurants, fish markets, and especially consumers remain aware and act responsibly. Protecting these species—critical to the Mediterranean reef ecosystem—during their breeding season is a vital step toward ensuring their survival and restoring their population,” the department said in a statement.

Groupers are a type of ray-finned fish belonging to the sea bass family.