Usual size
10–25 cm (mantle length)
Maximum
40 cm
Where
Rock · Harbours and breakwaters
When
Rough abundance from shore in each sea
Galicia and Cantabrian Sea
Gulf of Cádiz
Mediterranean and Balearics
Canary Islands
All year on rocky bottoms and harbour boulders; best with calm sea and clear water.
Natural baits
- Crab
- Sardine
- Mackerel
Lures
- Octopus jigs (lures with a hook crown)
- Baited stick (where allowed)
How to recognise it
Eight arms, each with two rows of suckers, and colour-changing skin.
Tip
Drag the octopus jig very slowly along the bottom. Check the rules: many regions set a weight limit, a piece limit or a special permit.
Minimum size and rules by area
Galicia
At most 2 octopus per angler per day.
Asturias
At most 2 octopus of at least 1 kg, within the 5 kg limit.
Cantabria
1 octopus of at least 1 kg per licence per day, with a special temporary permit.
Basque Country
Atlantic Andalusia
Catching it is banned in Andalusia's inner waters.
Mediterranean Andalusia
Catching it is banned in Andalusia's inner waters.
Ceuta
Melilla
Murcia
Valencia region
Catalonia
Closed season: Closed season 1 August – 30 September (Barcelona). Closed season 1 July – 31 August (Girona). Closed season 1 July – 31 August (Tarragona).
Balearic Islands
At most 3 octopus per day, each of at least 1 kg.
Closed season: Closed season 1 May – 30 June (Menorca). Closed season 1 June – 31 July (Mallorca). Closed season 15 July – 15 October (Ibiza and Formentera).
Canary Islands
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 →