The first edition of the "Sturgeon Savior" initiative of the "For Our Sea" Foundation together with "Black Sea Catch" - the company that has redefined Black Sea cuisine in recent years - ends with impressive results. During the first year, 12 fishing vessels took part in the project, releasing 170 sturgeon and collecting valuable data on the population status and migration routes in the Black Sea. 

"Sturgeon Saviour was launched a year ago to showcase positive examples of responsible Black Sea fishing and thus support fishermen who have taken up the conservation of this endangered species. All fishermen who take part in the initiative send in evidence (including video footage) of sturgeons released back into the sea, and the location, weight and size of each fish is recorded so that the information can be used to track the status of the species.

As a conclusion of the first year of the project, on 31 October, on the International Black Sea Day, Captain Steliyan Nikolov was awarded the title "Sturgeon Savior 2024" for his outstanding contribution to the conservation of the species. The title was awarded at the fishing port in Asparuhovo, Varna. "We are extremely impressed by the energy and enthusiasm with which the responsible Black Sea fishermen took part in the project. We are honored to continue this initiative and to continue to make visible the efforts of the fishing community to protect the resources of our sea," said Georgi Gavazov, Manager of Black Sea Catch.

"In the framework of the project "Sturgeon Savior" we collected valuable information with scientific value on sturgeon in the Black Sea, which will support the work of all institutions and organizations involved in their conservation. We are happy that the potential of the Black Sea commercial fishing to work side by side with the scientific community and conservation organizations is beginning to find realization" - commented Dimitar Dimitrov, Chairman of "For Our Sea" Foundation.

Sturgeon are among the most ancient fish on our planet, but are threatened with extinction due to their intensified fishing on a global scale. They are highly sought after not only for their meat, but also for the valuable eggs they spawn as they move from salt to fresh water. To conserve the species and ensure its sustainable recovery, the efforts of the entire fishing community are needed. 

In a video published by Black Sea Catch and For Our Sea Foundation at the beginning of the project, it is pointed out that catching just one single fish from the endangered and protected species can bring in an income of over BGN 5 000. However, positive examples of sturgeon released by fishermen are not lacking, on the contrary, the fishing community clearly shows that it is ready to take appropriate measures to preserve the biodiversity of the Black Sea. 

The organisers are appealing to all fishing associations and skippers of Black Sea fishing vessels to join next year's campaign by contacting representatives of Black Sea Catch and For Our Sea Foundation.