STARTING on February 15, the Gulf of Thailand will impose a 3-month commercial fishing restriction to protect its mackerel population.
The shallow inlet is famous for its gorgeous beaches, islands, and thriving species of fish.
Only small boats are allowed to fish in the restricted area starting on February 15.
Fishing nets over 2,500 meters long and a minimum mesh size of 2.5cm are allowed while the vessels must be under 10 tonnes in gross weight.
The Fisheries Department said the fishing restrictions imposed last year caused the mackerel population to increase in the Gulf of Thailand.
The fishermen last year caught an estimated 41,310 tonnes of mackerel worth about 3.3 billion baht, compared to 35,708 tonnes recorded in 2022.
The Gulf of Thailand is also home to more than fifteen thousand species of fish, making it one of the most popular recreational fishing destinations in the world.
