<p>Anthropogenic litter pollution is recognized as a critical environmental issue by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), with factors like climate change and population growth intensifying the issue. This study aims to assess the abundance and pollution status of macro litter (&gt; 3&#xa0;cm) in two key freshwater basins in the Mediterranean region of Turkey: Lake Eğirdir and Lake Kovada. Macro litter sampling was conducted along the shorelines of both lakes, and pollution levels were measured using the Clean Coast Index (CCI), Clean Environment Index (CEI), and Cigarette Butt Pollution Index (CBPI). In total, 6688 litter items were collected from Lake Eğirdir, and 10,313 from Lake Kovada. Plastic and polystyrene materials dominated the litter composition in both lakes, with mixed packaging being the most common source. However, at the C2 station in Lake Kovada, domestic litter was the most abundant. According to the CCI, all stations except E5 were classified as “dirty-very dirty.” The CEI results showed that stations E1, E7, K1, C1, and C3 had similar pollution levels. Based on the CBPI, stations E1 and C3 were considered “polluted.” Given the potential volume and sources of plastic litter, it is crucial for the government to collaborate with local stakeholders, including farmers, fisheries, industries, hotels, and tourism operators along the shores of Lake Eğirdir and Lake Kovada. For instance, plastic bottles and bags, which are commonly discarded from hotels and recreational areas, represent a major source of pollution in both regions. This research represents the first study on anthropogenic litter in these freshwater ecosystems. The findings emphasize the need for immediate policy actions and effective waste management strategies to reduce macro litter pollution in these critical freshwater habitats of the Mediterranean region.</p>