Start of an Expected Season
The lampuga fishing in the Balearic Islands resumes its activity this Sunday, August 25, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated campaigns by professionals in the sector and fish lovers. However, it should be noted that fishermen will not be able to go out to sea until Monday, August 26, as weekends are reserved for the preservation of species.
Economic Impact and Previous Captures
With a total of 35 boats dedicated to this activity, the port of Cala Rajada stands out as the main starting point, with seven operational boats. Last year, fishing managed to capture 99,486 kilos of lampuga, generating income close to 592,376 euros. Forecasts for the current campaign are expected to be similar, with catches that could range between 80 and 120 tonnes.
Updated Regulations and Sustainability
The recent regulation, Regulation (EU) 2024/259, came into force this year, establishing restrictions on fishing opportunities in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. In Spain, a maximum effort of 45 vessels and a total allowable catch of 127 tonnes has been set. Antoni M. Grau, Director General of Fishing, has highlighted the importance of this regulation, which recognizes the healthy state of the lampuga population and its sustainable fishing.
Recreational Fishing and Regulations
The Regulation also includes regulations for recreational fishing, with a quota of 10 kilos or five fish per person per day, valid from August 15 to December 31. These measures seek to guarantee the sustainability of species, avoiding the overexploitation of marine resources.
Tradition and Regulation of Fishing
The lamp fishing technique is a tradition rooted in Mallorca, with the confraternities of Cala Rajada and Alcúdia as protagonists in the capture of this species. The Organization of Producers OPMallorcaMar regulates catches, establishing a daily limit of 150 kilos per boat, to guarantee a balance between fishing tradition and the sustainability of the resource.
Restrictions and Penalties
The Government has reminded that the fishing of lampuga with lampuguera is reserved exclusively for professional fishermen of minor arts. Boats of other types or recreational that operate less than 250 meters from fish concentration points are exposed to significant financial penalties.
