Barguna, Nov 16 (V7N) – A fishing trawler named FB Allah Vorosha brought a rare haul of Baim fish—now considered an almost extinct species—to the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) landing station in Patharghata, Barguna on Saturday afternoon. Around 2 p.m., traders gathered at the dock as the catch was put up for sale.

Fish wholesaler Zakir Hossain purchased the entire consignment of 9 maunds at Tk 24,000 per maund, totaling Tk 2,16,000.

According to local sources, the trawler owned by Bachchu Gazi sailed into deep sea ten days ago for a long fishing trip. Using hook-and-line methods, the crew caught 9 maunds of Baim fish over the course of the expedition.

Babul Mia, the trawler master, said he and 8–10 fishermen set out together and waited for hours after setting their lines before the fish took the bait. He added that Baim fish typically command higher prices, making the crew satisfied with their catch.

Wholesaler Zakir Hossain’s manager, Md. Rasel, said the purchase is expected to yield strong profits. While demand in Patharghata is limited, the fish is highly sought after in Dhaka, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar, where prices tend to rise significantly.

Golam Mostafa Chowdhury, president of the Barguna District Fishing Trawler Owners’ Association, said Baim fish were once common at the BFDC landing station, especially during the early winter months when fishermen returned from deep sea trips. However, the species is now rapidly disappearing.

He blamed the decline on unethical practices by some vessel owners and fishermen, including the use of illegal wooden trawlers that indiscriminately destroy fish fry of all species. This irresponsible harvesting, he warned, is pushing Baim fish toward extinction.

END/MRR/SMA/