Surfcasting in the Mediterranean, different species of fish to catch

What fish can you catch surfcasting in the Mediterranean? © Laurent Duclos

Surfcasting in the Mediterranean offers a wide variety of fish species to catch, thanks to the region's rich and varied marine habitats. Here are some of the species most commonly sought by surfcasting anglers and the legal catch sizes.

Le loup (Bar):

The wolfish is one of the most popular surfcasting fish in the Mediterranean. They are prized for their combativeness and delicious flesh. Wolffish are often found near rocky coasts and estuaries. Minimum catch size: 30 cm.

Sea bream (Sparus aurata):

Sea bream is another highly sought-after fish. It is known for its tasty flesh and can be caught using natural baits such as shells or worms. Minimum catch size: 23 cm.

Dorade royale
Sea bream

Sars (Diplodus spp.):

Sars, including common and black-headed sars, are common fish in the Mediterranean. They are often caught near rocky areas and sea grass beds in rough seas. Minimum catch size for black-headed and pointed-snout bream: 18 cm. Minimum catch size for common sar: 23 cm.

Les différents sars sont à rechercher près des côtes rocheuses
The various sars are to be found near rocky coasts

The acarnate pageot (Pagellus acarne):

The pageot is a groundfish that can be caught using natural baits. It is prized for its delicate flesh and is often found on sandy or rocky bottoms. Minimum catch size: 17 cm.

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus):

The red mullet is a small fish, but highly prized for its flesh. It is often caught using baits such as sand worms. Minimum catch size: 15 cm.

Le rouget barbet un petit poisson très recherché
Red mullet, a highly sought-after little fish

Mostelle (Phycis phycis):

The mostelle is a groundfish that can be caught using natural baits. It is often found on sandy or muddy bottoms and more often during nocturnal sessions. Minimum catch size: 30 cm.

Conger conger:

The conger eel is a large fish that can be caught by surfcasting, especially at night. It is prized for its combativeness and requires special equipment, especially for larger fish. Minimum catch size: 60 cm.

Note that fish are measured from the snout to the end of the caudal fin, and that catches must be marked by removing the lower part of the caudal fin.

These different species offer a variety of fishing experiences, from small delicate fish to larger fighters. The choice of baits and fishing techniques may vary according to the target species and local conditions.

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