One of the Balearic Islands’ most traditional fishing seasons is about to begin, with the raor population showing strong signs of recovery after decades of protection.

The fishing season for the raor (Xyrichtys novacula) officially opens across the Balearic Islands on September 1, 2026, following five months of seasonal protection. The season will remain open until March 31, 2027.

For Ibiza and the other Balearic Islands, the reopening is particularly notable because recent scientific monitoring shows that the fish have become significantly larger since the seasonal closure was introduced.

Raor Weight Has Nearly Tripled

According to monitoring by the Laboratory of Marine Research and Aquaculture (LIMIA) and the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies (IMEDEA, CSIC-UIB), the average weight of sampled raors in 2025 reached approximately 70 grams.

That compares with just 26 grams in 1999, the year before the current protection period was introduced.

In other words, the average weight has increased by almost three times.

The average length has also increased considerably, from 124 millimetres in 1999 to 168 millimetres in the latest measurements — an increase of around 35%.

The data suggest that the raor population has recovered substantially and that the average size of the fish is now close to the species' biological maximum in areas where it is fished.

A Fishing Tradition With a Long History

The raor is a highly valued fish in the Balearic Islands and has a particularly strong connection with local recreational fishing.

The species is recognisable by its elongated body and vivid colouring and is considered an important part of traditional Balearic cuisine.

Its popularity, however, also contributed to significant fishing pressure.

In 1999, authorities identified a clear situation of overfishing, with the average weight of the raor falling to only 26 grams.

A seasonal fishing closure was subsequently introduced in 2000, restricting fishing during the period when the species needs protection.

More than two decades later, the latest monitoring indicates that the measure has had a significant positive effect.

September Marks the Return of the Season

From September 1, recreational fishers across Ibiza and the other Balearic Islands can once again target raor within the applicable regulations.

The season will run through March 31, 2027, giving recreational fishers several months to enjoy the tradition while maintaining the annual protection period.

There is one exception: the High Protection Zone of the Illes Malgrats will remain closed to raor fishing until October 1.

A 50-Fish Daily Limit

The reopening comes with strict rules designed to keep the fishery sustainable.

The current daily limit is 50 raors per person, with an additional maximum catch limit applying to each boat according to the regulations.

Fishing inspections will also be strengthened in important fishing and anchoring areas, with authorities particularly focused on preventing illegal sales and excessive catches.

Breaking the rules can result in serious penalties. According to the Balearic Government information cited by Noudiari, violations of the fishing restrictions can carry a minimum fine of €151 per illegally caught specimen, with penalties increasing depending on the circumstances.

What the Recovery Means for Ibiza

The latest figures offer an encouraging example of how seasonal protection and science-based fisheries management can help a popular Mediterranean species recover.

Balearic Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment Minister Joan Simonet highlighted the increase in both the size of the fish and the health of the population as evidence of the benefits of appropriate fisheries management.

For Ibiza, the story is about more than fishing.

The raor is part of the island's local food culture, maritime traditions and relationship with the Mediterranean, making the start of its fishing season an annual event for many recreational fishers.

The recovery also demonstrates how traditional activities can continue when they are managed alongside conservation measures.

A Season to Enjoy Responsibly

Authorities expect the 2026–27 season to be similar to the previous year and are calling on recreational fishers to follow the regulations and help maintain the balance of the fishery.

After years of protection, the raor population is now showing some of its strongest measurements in decades.

For Ibiza and the wider Balearic Islands, the return of the season is therefore both a continuation of a much-loved tradition and a reminder that responsible management can help preserve the island's marine resources for future generations.

The 2026–27 raor fishing season officially begins September 1.

Source: Noudiari