Abstract

This study was performed in order to determine how the increased pufferfish population has affected the region's angling. Data was obtained by conducting a survey with people (355 face-to face) in recreational fishing activities from Iskenderun Bay as a main four regions, namely Iskenderun, Arsuz, Çevlik and Samandağ. Catching of pufferfish species naturally regarded as a negative result because they are not eaten and some are poisonous. Nevertheless, pufferfish species are one of the most caught species in the angling and longline fishery in the region. When the regional assessment carried out, in recreational fishery, pufferfish are the most prevalent catch on the Arsuz and its surrounding coasts. A very important part of recreational fishermen stated is a problem for angling in the region. Although the pufferfish is considered a problem because of the damage it inflicts on the fishing gear, anglers are not too bothered by this situation. when they see the pufferfish caught, they prefer to cut the fishing line instead of take on the boat or landing the fish. However, they reported that it is not possible to catch an angling in the density of the pufferfish in this region. Because pufferfish species are always attacking regardless of whether it is bait or without bait. As a conclusion, obtained with these results should be supported with researches based on practice and there is a need for data on sustainable recreational fishing management in the region.