KUWAIT CITY, July 12: Although the Mullet fishing season officially began with the start of July, both fishermen and consumers have been left disappointed as the anticipated catch has largely failed to materialize. Despite high expectations, the mullet fish have been absent from fishing nets and market stalls.

A source from the Public Authority for Agriculture and Fish Resources (PAAF) attributed the shortage to several key factors. Chief among them is the fact that the mullet fish have yet to leave Kuwait Bay due to their small size. Additionally, there has been a limited number of active fishermen, caused by delays in issuing the necessary work permits. Unfavorable weather conditions have further hampered fishing operations.

“The true start of the mullet fishing season is expected in about two weeks,” the source said. “By then, the fish should have completed their growth cycle and exited the restricted fishing zones. This will also align with the launch of the shrimp fishing season on August 1st, when foreign fishermen are expected to arrive and weather conditions are likely to improve.”

File Photo: Mullets at Kuwait Fish Market

Abdullah Al-Sarheed, Head of the Fishermen’s Union, echoed similar concerns, stating, “The outlook for the season remains uncertain. The mullet fish are still concentrated within Kuwait Bay and have not yet reached the designated fishing zones approved by the authorities.”

Al-Sarheed added that recent high winds and rough weather have significantly delayed fishing operations. “We currently have 33 boats entering the area daily, but the conditions at sea are simply not favorable. Moreover, the delay in work permit issuance continues to prevent the arrival of foreign fishing crews.”