Usual size
35–60 cm
Maximum
110 cm
Where
Open sea (by boat)
When
Indicative abundance from the shore in northern Spain
All year by boat, over mud and sand at 80–200 m; best with little drift and in low light.
Natural baits
- Sardine strips
- Squid strips
- Mackerel strips
Lures
- Heavy jigs over 80–200 m depths
How to recognise it
Long silver-grey body, large toothed mouth with a black lining; two dorsal fins, the second one long.
Tip
Multi-hook rig with sardine strips and a heavy lead: its mouth is soft, so bring fish up without jerking.
Minimum size and rules by area
Galicia
Species under special protection: declare it in PescaREC. In Cantabria and the Basque Country, maximum 5 fish per licence per day (20 per boat).
Asturias
Species under special protection: declare it in PescaREC. In Cantabria and the Basque Country, maximum 5 fish per licence per day (20 per boat).
Cantabria
Species under special protection: declare it in PescaREC. In Cantabria and the Basque Country, maximum 5 fish per licence per day (20 per boat).
Basque Country
Species under special protection: declare it in PescaREC. In Cantabria and the Basque Country, maximum 5 fish per licence per day (20 per boat).
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 →