Bosphorus Bluefish Description and Distinguishing Features of Bosphorus Bluefish: Bosphorus Bluefish refers to the meat of the Pomatomus saltatrix species, which belongs to the Pomatomidae family. This fish is found and cultivated in the waters between the northern Turkisheli Lighthouse (Rumeli) and the Anatolian Lighthouse in the northern part of the Istanbul Strait, and along the lines that connect the Ahırkapı Lighthouse and the Kadıköy İnciburnu Pier Lighthouse to the south. The Bosphorus Bluefish is easily identifiable by its dual dorsal fins, yellowish fin color, and slightly compressed body shape from the sides. Its back and sides are a green-gray shade, while its belly is a silver-white color. The gill covers of the Bosphorus Bluefish are scaly, though its head is devoid of scales. Additionally, this fish has a robust jaw with teeth present in its palate. Typically sold fresh, the Bosphorus Bluefish is commonly enjoyed grilled, steamed, as pilaki, or fried. Bosphorus Bluefish inhabits and is caught within the geographical boundaries at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters. Its primary fishing season spans from October to January. The minimum size for capture is 18 cm, and an individual must weigh at least 150 g. Typically, Bosphorus Bluefish preys on fresh anchovies, mullets, and smelts. The strong currents, cold temperatures, and high oxygen levels of the Bosphorus provide an ideal environment for its reproduction. The spawning period occurs from late spring to early summer, during which it gradually lays between 60,000 and 80,000 eggs. From mid-summer to fall, it enters a hibernation phase, with its fat content increasing from October to May. On average, its fat content is 9.61 grams per 100 grams. Bosphorus Bluefish, which has been a part of the Istanbul Strait for many years, is referenced in various historical texts from the Ottoman Empire. Production Method: Bosphorus Bluefish refers to the flesh of the Pomatomus saltatrix species, which belongs to the Pomatomidae family. This fish is caught and cultivated within the defined geographical region. Several techniques are utilized for the capture of Bosphorus Bluefish in these waters. The fishing methods are described below. In the baited fishing rod technique used for catching Bosphorus Bluefish, equipment like trolling rigs and mushroomed bottom rigs are commonly employed. Trolling rigs are preferred for nighttime boat fishing, while mushroomed bottom rigs are typically used in shore-based fishing. As the fishing season begins with the migration of the Bosphorus Bluefish, daytime fishing boats patrol areas where the fish are likely to be found. These boats are equipped with a glass lookout, known as the "mirror," mounted on the lower part of the boat, which fishermen continuously monitor to pinpoint areas rich in fish. Once a suitable school is located, a net, carefully set at the stern of the boat, is swiftly deployed into the water, initiating a rapid circling motion. Then, noise is generated using a buoy to guide the fish toward the net. Finally, the net is hauled back onto the boat using a hydraulic winch located at the front of the vessel, completing the fishing operation. During nighttime fishing, the lookout at the front of the slowly moving boat uses a lantern, alternately lighting and extinguishing it, while observing the phosphorescent glow created by the fish. Once a suitable school is spotted, the net is quickly deployed into the water, forming a circular shape. After the net is dropped, flashes are generated either with a buoy or a lamp inside the net (by turning the light on and off), helping to guide the fish into the net and ensuring they become entangled. The Bosphorus Bluefish is caught using natural baits like anchovies, mackerel, mullets, smelts, horse mackerel, garfish, saury, and sand smelt. These baits can be used whole or cut into pieces depending on their size. Among these, smelt is the most commonly used bait, with its scales cleaned before use. It’s essential that all bait fish used are fresh. Trolling is the most traditional method for catching Bosphorus Bluefish, typically carried out at night from a boat. While it is also possible to fish during the day using this method, it is more effective when conducted at night with the assistance of lights. Once the fishing location is selected, ideally before nightfall, the boat proceeds to the designated spot and is anchored. During anchoring, the boat should be secured to the tonoz to prevent unnecessary drifting caused by currents and wind. Additionally, by keeping the tonoz ropes long, the boat can be adjusted to move forward or backward as needed. After preparing the bait for trolling, the rig is lowered into the water. The rig is allowed to reach the bottom, then it is raised about 1 meter off the seabed, with the bait positioned to attract the fish. If there is no bite from the Bosphorus Bluefish for an extended period, the tonoz should be moved back and forth to adjust the depth, either becoming slightly shallower or deeper. The bite of the Bosphorus Bluefish is subtle, and due to its sharp teeth, the moment it takes the bait, it is often detected by a distinct clicking sound.