In Turkey, individuals interested in engaging in amateur fishing activities are legally required to have an Amateur Fishing License. To obtain this license, it is necessary to prepare the relevant documents, acquire the necessary health report, pay the license fee, and apply to the Provincial Directorate of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock. Once you have completed the necessary procedures and received your license, you are allowed to fish as an amateur. It is important to remember that fishing without an Amateur Fishing License is prohibited and those who violate this rule may face fines. Therefore, the first step for those wanting to start amateur fishing should be to obtain this license.

 Here’s the information in detail:

• Fishing, which involves the catching, gathering, and production of fish and other marine animals from seas, lakes, ponds, rivers, and reservoirs for various benefits to humans, is defined as fishing.
• Fishing done purely for sport and recreation without commercial intent is referred to as Amateur Fishing, fishing done to meet nutritional needs and for profit is called Commercial Fishing, and fishing done for competition purposes is termed Sport Fishing.
• To preserve the natural habitats in our seas and inland waters, and to ensure responsible and sustainable fishing practices, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has imposed certain bans, restrictions, and obligations for amateur fishing under the Fishery Law No. 1380 dated 22/3/1971 and its regulations.
• Turkish citizens can engage in amateur fishing, provided they comply with the restrictions and responsibilities introduced by this circular. Upon application, they can be issued an “Amateur Fishing License” by provincial and district directorates, valid for two years from the date of issuance. However, obtaining this license or carrying it while fishing is not mandatory.
• An amateur fisherman can use a fishing rod, and there are distinctions between freshwater and sea fishing. Different regulations and sanctions apply to each. An amateur fisherman at sea may use up to 4 rods and 6 hooks (variable with squid jigs). Boats shorter than 7.5 meters are typically used for amateur fishing and are considered amateur boats by the Ministry of Agriculture if unregistered. They are also treated as part of the amateur boats group in ports.
• An amateur fisherman consumes the fish they catch, a commercial fisherman sells their catch, while a sport fisherman does not eat their catch but releases it back into the water after measurements.
• If an amateur fisherman violates fishing regulations and is caught by authorities, their fishing equipment and even their vehicle may be seized depending on the region. They may also face administrative fines under the current legislation. Even if not caught, the damage done to the natural habitat can prevent future fishing in that area, and fishing near prohibited zones and borders can be life-threatening.
• Documents required for the Amateur Fishing License include a copy of your ID, proof of residence, two biometric photos, a health report, and a receipt for the fee payment.

To get your health report, you must visit a health institution where necessary health checks will be conducted to ensure that fishing does not pose a health risk to you. To pay the fee for the Amateur Fishing License, you must deposit the specified amount at a bank designated by the Provincial Directorate of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock and submit the payment receipt with your documents. When your documents are ready, apply in person at the Provincial Directorate of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock by filling out an application form and submitting your prepared documents. After ensuring your documents are submitted and the fee is paid, you can collect your Amateur Fishing License from the same directorate within the specified period.

Remember, it’s essential for those wanting to engage in amateur fishing in Turkey to obtain this license to avoid penalties and contribute to sustainable fishing practices.