Season Start for the Razorfish: Rules, Opportunities, and What Anglers Need to Know

The season is back: razorfish ("raor") from September 1st

From September 1st the fishing season for razorfish officially starts again in the Balearic Islands – often called raor in Mallorcan, as reported by Mallorca-Magic: season starts on September 1. For many commercial and recreational fishers this means: head out early, while the wind is still asleep and the bay lies like a mirror. In harbors like Port de Pollença or Cala Rajada, as reported in a Mallorca-Magic article on Cala Ratjada's season, you then hear the quiet clatter of ropes, smell diesel and coffee, and listen to fishermen who have known for decades where the fish are.

Key question: preserve tradition – but how sustainably?

The central question is not only whether the season starts, but how we shape it. Can traditional coastal communities rely on regular landings without overexploiting the stocks? Or do such periods end in increased surveillance and harsh penalties? The answer lies between the extremes: with clear rules, enforcement and local engagement, catches and the future can be reconciled.

Who is allowed to catch how much?

The authority makes it clear: per fishing license a maximum of 50 fish per day is allowed, and for a vessel the limit is 300 fish. This is not a recommendation but law. These limits are intended to prevent too much being taken from the water, especially during the calm autumn and winter months.

Permission is mandatory — and enforced

No one may fish in the waters of the Balearic Islands without a valid permit. Authorities are taking a firmer stance: fines can be up to €300,000. Confiscation of catch and equipment is also possible. For tourists this means: check the paperwork or, better, book a trip with a licensed boat operator. Many operators handle the formalities — avoiding unpleasant surprises at the pier.

What makes the razorfish special — and popular?

The razorfish stands out: narrow, with shimmering scales that can appear pink, orange or bluish depending on the light. It has become a staple on island menus. Whether grilled, fried or served with garlic and parsley – fresh from the grill it tastes best. For restaurants in small towns these landings are a welcome offering to guests.

Less-discussed aspects

Public debates often revolve around catch quantities and penalties. What is rarely discussed is how small-scale fishing and tourism interact: recreational anglers from abroad, charter boats and local fishermen all share the same coast. Without clear labeling of catch volumes and origin, products sometimes end up mixed on the market. That complicates sustainable marketing and fair prices for small-scale fishermen. Resources such as Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch explain how labeling and consumer guidance can support sustainable marketing.

Concrete opportunities and solutions

There are practical steps that can link conservation and the economy. First: better information at the quay. A clearly visible info sheet with limits, closed seasons and authority contact details costs little and creates clarity. Second: incentives for selective fishing methods – smaller hooks, more targeted nets to reduce bycatch. Third: local collaborations between fishers and restaurants for transparent marketing. Guests appreciate when a menu states where the fish comes from. Fourth: digital catch reports. Simple apps could log landings and help monitor stocks in near real-time, a concept supported by initiatives like Global Fishing Watch. These approaches are in line with international recommendations such as the FAO voluntary guidelines for small-scale fisheries.

Tips for responsible angling

A few practical tips: only catch the permitted amount. Use appropriate hook sizes to protect juvenile fish. Carefully release small fish — gentle handling increases their chances of survival. And listen to the old harbor taverns: fishermen's experience is often more instructive than any brochure.

What happens in case of violations?

Inspections can bring harsh consequences: fines, confiscations and, in the worst case, loss of licenses. Authorities have increased their presence in recent years; inspections are routine, especially in busy months. Those who follow the rules not only fish legally — they also secure the future of local fisheries.

And yes: it remains a beautiful sight. Standing on the quay on a clear morning with a hot cup of coffee and watching the first boats return is part of everyday life in Mallorca. If we want to protect that everyday life, responsibility helps more than nostalgic longing. That way the raor will still have a place on our plates for years to come.