Usual size
20–35 cm
Maximum
60 cm
Where
Rock · Harbours and breakwaters · Sand
When
Indicative abundance from the shore in northern Spain
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
From spring to early autumn in harbours, breakwaters and mixed ground. Very active by day.
Natural baits
- Ragworm
- Squid strips
- Mussel
- Prawn
- Paste
Lures
- Small soft plastics and micro-jigs (ultralight)
How to recognise it
Deep grey-silver body with fine golden horizontal lines and a small mouth.
Tip
It bites fast and in shoals: small hook (size 8–10) and light groundbait to hold them.
Minimum size and rules by area
Galicia
Min. 23 cm
Asturias
Min. 23 cm
Cantabria
Min. 23 cm
Basque Country
Min. 23 cm
Fish are measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail; squid and cuttlefish by the mantle. If it is undersized, release it alive.
Official sources →