The fishing port is one of the most representative places of this identity. Every day, the boats go out to sea at different times and use techniques adapted to the species they catch. This diversity of fishing methods is one of the distinctive features of the local fishing sector.

Trawling: the “bou” fishing method

Trawling, popularly known as “bou” fishing, is one of the most traditional fishing methods in l'Ametlla de Mar. It consists of towing a net along the seabed to catch species such as hake, monkfish, red mullet, squat lobster or prawns, among others. The boats usually set out in the morning and return to the port to unload their catches, which are subsequently sold at the fish auction. It is an important activity for the supply of fresh fish, subject to regulations that seek to reconcile fishing with the conservation of marine resources.

Purse seining: light fishing

Another characteristic fishing method is purse seining, known as light fishing, which mainly targets blue fish species such as sardines, anchovies, horse mackerel and mackerel. This type of fishing is usually practised at night. Using lighting systems, fishermen gather schools of fish and surround them with a large net that is closed at the bottom. The boats usually return to port during the early hours of the morning, with catches that are part of traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

Traditional fishing: trammel nets, fish traps and longlines

Small-scale fishing is one of the most representative expressions of l'Ametlla de Mar's maritime tradition. It is usually practised using small boats and requires an in-depth knowledge of the seabed, the habits of different species and sea conditions. Three traditional fishing methods stand out:

• Trammel nets: a net made up of three superimposed panels that is set in the sea and allows different species to be caught, such as red mullet, cuttlefish or sole, depending on the area and the season. It is one of the most representative fishing methods of Mediterranean artisanal fishing.
• Fish traps: traps placed on the seabed, traditionally made from plant materials and nowadays also from other materials. They are used to catch species such as octopus or cuttlefish, depending on the type of trap.
• Longlines: consist of a main line from which several baited hooks hang. Depending on the depth and the method used, they allow different fish species to be caught, such as red porgy, dentex or hake.

These fishing methods are part of La Cala's cultural and maritime heritage and are an example of the knowledge and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation among fishing families.

Bluefin tuna: an international reference point

Bluefin tuna fishing is one of the activities that has given l'Ametlla de Mar the greatest international recognition. It is carried out using specialised vessels that employ large purse seine nets to catch schools of tuna during authorised fishing campaigns, under a system of quotas and international controls.

One of the municipality's distinctive features is the presence of bluefin tuna fattening facilities in coastal waters. This activity has also promoted tourist experiences such as the Tuna Tour and has made bluefin tuna one of the main highlights of the local gastronomy.

From the Sea to the Table: The Importance of the Fish Market

Fishing activity does not end when the boats return. At the fish market, the catches are sold through an auction system and reach fishmongers, distributors and restaurants. The Fishermen's Guild of l'Ametlla de Mar plays a fundamental role in organising this activity and supporting professionals in the sector. The fish and seafood from the fish market are also the basis of much of La Cala's traditional cuisine. Dishes such as arrossejat and fideus rossejats have their origins in the fishermen's gastronomic culture and continue to be two of the municipality's main culinary references.

A Tradition That Is Part of Our Future

Today, the fishing sector faces significant challenges, such as the sustainability of marine resources, fishing regulations, rising costs and generational renewal. Preserving fishing also means preserving a fundamental part of l'Ametlla de Mar's history, knowledge and traditions. Therefore, learning about the different fishing methods, valuing local products and recognising the work of fishermen is also a way to discover our fishing village from a more authentic perspective.

Because in l'Ametlla de Mar, fishing is not just an economic activity: it is an inseparable part of our identity, our history and our future.