Usual size
12–20 cm
Maximum
38 cm
Where
Sand
When
Rough abundance from shore in each sea
Gulf of Cádiz
Mediterranean and Balearics
Canary Islands
Over clean sand at 5–40 m, especially in September and October. In the Balearics it may only be fished from 1 September to 31 March.
Natural baits
- Prawn
- Worms
- Small squid strips
- Mussel
How to recognise it
Small and very compressed, with an almost vertical forehead like an axe blade; pink or orange with bluish sheen. It dives into the sand when scared.
Tip
Drift over sand from a boat with two very small hooks and prawn: bites are quick, so strike straight away.
Minimum size and rules by area
Atlantic Andalusia
Mediterranean Andalusia
No minimum size in this zone's rules. Neighbouring regions: 15 cm; release smaller fish.
Ceuta
No minimum size in this zone's rules. Neighbouring regions: 15 cm; release smaller fish.
Melilla
No minimum size in this zone's rules. Neighbouring regions: 15 cm; release smaller fish.
Murcia
No minimum size in this zone's rules. Neighbouring regions: 15 cm; release smaller fish.
Valencia region
No minimum size in this zone's rules. Neighbouring regions: 15 cm; release smaller fish.
Catalonia
Balearic Islands
At most 50 per angler per day (300 per boat).
Closed season: Closed season 1 April – 31 August.
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 →