New minimum sizes set for recreational fishing of smoothhound, greater amberjack and scorpionfish

Joan Simonet highlighted that this is a pioneering measure in Europe and has been taken in agreement with the professional fishing sector of the Balearic Islands. In addition, the minimum size for recreational fishing of greater amberjacks and red scorpionfishes has also been increased.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Natural Environment, through the Directorate-General of Fisheries, is establishing for the first time a minimum size for the recreational fishing of the smoothhound (Mustelus mustelus), with the aim of promoting its conservation. In this regard, Minister Joan Simonet emphasized that “this is the first time such a measure has been implemented in Europe.” He also added, “All decisions—and this is just another example—are agreed upon with the professional fishing sector of the Balearic Islands. This demonstrates the Balearic fishing sector’s commitment to sustainable resource management.”

Furthermore, the regional government is also increasing the minimum size for recreational fishing of greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) and red scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) within the territory and inland waters of the archipelago.

The Order setting the minimum sizes for these three species is already available for public consultation. In the specific case of the smoothhound, the first meeting of the Elasmobranch Expert Group of the Ministry, held on September 11th, 2024, concluded that it was appropriate to establish a minimum catch size for the species. The minimum size should be close to the length at first maturity, which is estimated to be 110 cm total length in the Balearic Islands.

In recent years, the archipelago has seen an increase in catches of this species, particularly juveniles, mainly as a result of trawling. However, the market value of smaller specimens is low. In this context, Simonet stated that “setting a minimum size will support the conservation of the species and maintain its presence in local markets and gastronomy.”

Regarding the minimum recreational fishing size for greater amberjack, the current regulation will be amended to propose a permanent minimum catch size of 35 cm. At this size, the fish are less vulnerable to this type of fishing. Currently, between July 1st and September 15th (in Menorca and Mallorca), and until September 30th (in Ibiza and Formentera), the minimum catch size is 30 cm. Outside of these dates, there are no size limits. Greater amberjack is a very fast-growing species, which can increase in just a few weeks in autumn from 100 grams (at 20 cm) to 470 grams (at 35 cm). There are also changes in the daily catch limit per person after the closed season. Currently, more than 50 individuals can be caught per person per day. Under the proposed new minimum size, and with the goal of significantly contributing to species conservation, this number would be reduced to 11.

As for red scorpionfish, the current minimum catch size for recreational fishing is 25 cm. However, the size at first sexual maturity for females is around 29 cm. This means that under the current regulation, individuals that have not yet reproduced can be caught, which threatens the species’ reproductive capacity. To support conservation and ensure reproduction before capture, it is proposed to increase the minimum catch size to 30 cm.