Massive Amount of Dead Fish and Shells Wash Ashore at Bang Saen Beach
A large quantity of dead fish and seashells has appeared along the coast of Bang Saen, Chonburi, prompting speculation from local vendors regarding fishing practices.
On November 8, 2026, residents and visitors at Bang Saen Beach in Chonburi province reported a concerning sight: a large number of dead fish and seashells scattered along the shoreline and floating in the water near the Laem Thaen roundabout and the Royal Thai Navy bridge. The accumulation of marine debris has drawn attention from the public and local authorities.
A local fish vendor with extensive experience in the fishing industry suggested that the phenomenon is likely linked to the activities of small-scale fishing boats. According to the vendor, these vessels often catch more fish than they can safely transport. To prevent their boats from becoming overloaded and risking capsizing, fishermen may discard excess, lower-value fish back into the sea. These discarded fish subsequently wash ashore due to tidal currents. The vendor noted that this practice is distinct from larger commercial fishing operations, which have greater storage capacity.
While this explanation provides a potential cause for the incident, it remains a theory based on local observation. The exact cause of the mass mortality event has not been officially confirmed by environmental or marine authorities. For residents and tourists, the presence of decaying marine life may temporarily impact the aesthetic and sanitary conditions of the beach area. Further investigation is required to definitively determine the cause and ensure there are no broader environmental concerns.
