Earlier to the Line: Cutlassfish Season in Majorca and Minorca Begins on August 31

Cutlassfish season starts one day earlier: August 31 in Majorca and Minorca

Those standing on the quay hear the soft clack of rods, smell espresso and the distant hum of a fishing boat leaving the harbor. This small morning ritual has a new rhythm as of today: on Majorca and Minorca, recreational anglers are allowed to catch the so-called cutlassfish starting on August 31 — one day earlier than originally planned. The Balearic government has issued an exemption permit.

Why the rule was brought forward

The earlier start is not the result of a spectacular political move but rather a pragmatic decision: the stock situation is currently considered stable, and authorities want to give local recreational fishers a bit more flexibility. Especially in small towns like Port d'Alcúdia or Portocolom, one extra day means less crowding on the first September morning and more opportunity to spread weekend activity.

I was early at the fishing jetty in Port d'Alcúdia — mist over the water, two men with buckets, their nets still a little wet from the day before. One smiled slyly and said, "Better a day earlier than later — the coffee on the quay is still hot then." Such observations are typical for the island: pragmatic, with a wink, and always tied to the hope of a good catch.

Important rules for anglers

Even if granting an extra day feels like a gift, clear limits apply: a maximum of 50 cutlassfish per person per day is allowed — a rule that applies to both Majorca and Minorca. For Ibiza and Formentera nothing changes; the season start there remains September 1. Those fishing at popular beaches like Cala Millor or in quiet harbors like Portocolom should carry their fishing license and check local regulations for any additional rules.

Responsibility remains central: avoid unnecessary catches, respect minimum sizes and ask at the town hall if anything is unclear. On the islands controls are well known — better to ask briefly in the morning than to have an uncomfortable encounter with an inspector later.

What the change means for locals and visitors

For island residents it means getting up early, for weekend plans a little more calm and for tourists an invitation to follow local customs. Those who cast their line should be mindful of the tradition: it's not just about catching fish, but about being together by the sea — conversations about the best bait, the right weather window and swapping recipe tips for the evening.

Practical tip: pay attention to the tides, use fresh bait and bring a cooler. If you catch something, you can make local shops or the small fish market in town happy — that way the added value stays in the community.

Outlook

The extra day may seem insignificant, but it is a small relief for many recreational fishers. If everyone acts thoughtfully, there will be enough for future seasons — and the sea will continue to gift us those early morning hours when the island still sleeps and only the seagulls and the calls of the fishers break the silence.

So: pack your rod, have your license ready, fish respectfully — and maybe enjoy an espresso on the quay beforehand. The sea has its rhythm; we are allowed to move with it one day earlier.