Are you considering visiting Cádiz any time soon? Are you a seafood lover? Have you ever heard about estuary fish? Do you want to learn more about an old Fishing technique? Luckily for you, In this post, we will show you everything you need to know about Estuary fish in Cádiz.
Contents
What is an Estuary or “Estero”?
We call the Estuary to the production method to obtain Estuary fish, which characterize by taking advantage of ancient salt flats and existing wetlands in Bay of Cádiz. Thanks to a perfect harmony with the environment and the sustainable use of resources that surround them. In these old salt flats, we call water reserve area, the estuary, and traditionally, at the end of the salt campaign, they obtain the fish that had naturally entered the exploitation. And this fish caught in the estuary is what is known as the estuary fish. Thanks to the adaptation of the land of these farms for better aquaculture use, it is possible to have land ponds optimized for fish production.
What is Estuary fish or “Pescado de esteros“?
When we talk about estuary fish or “Esteros” we refer to a series of fish products protected by a quality mark that differentiates them from other products. In other words, attending an estuary fish collection is a way to enjoy Michelin star quality products in a more unique natural environment. Sea bream, sea bass (snook), sole, croaker and mullet are the are the main types of fish that you will find in an estuary fishing along with some seafood such as estuary prawns, shrimp or even the famous oysters of Cádiz.
Fishing arts.
There are 2 different types of Estuary fishing:
Pound nets or “Nasas”.
The pound net or “nasa” is a passive fishing way. They use this method in estuary fishing, consisting of a narrowing cylinder shape (inverted funnel shape), so that when the prey (mainly crustaceans, fish and cephalopods) enters the net, its path is directed, falling into a reservoir from which it is impossible to get out. It is used with a bait that encourages fish or other animals to enter.
Clearing or “Despesque”.
Clearing or “Despesque” is the extraction of existing fish in the natural estuaries of the salt flats. They must empty them annually. That is to say that, it is an artisanal and natural fishing art of the Bay of Cádiz that they carry out exclusively in Autumn. This traditional work done by hand for many years, it´s a show to know, feel and experience first hand.
Estuary Tapas “Estero Tapas Time“
Sometimes, they do some small pound net clearings, in a gastronomic way, to let visitors try out the estuary fish. It is a spectacle worthy of admiration. We recommend you so much the landscape, and the environment that you can live here.
In addition, once they catch the fish, you can eat it right there. Roasted with firewood, with the aroma of salt horn and, sometimes, served on baked clay tiles. They always offer a great glass of Local Wine to enjoy with your Estuary fish, Seafood, and Cadiz Oysters.
Now you know everything that you needed to know about Estuary fish. Don’t you want to discover and experience it all by yourself? If so, don’t forget to take a look at our Salty and Tasty tour if you really want to enjoy the most unique local experience that will make you fall in love with our gastronomy even more. And please for more info and insights, get in touch with us here or write us at info@alsherry.com and we’d be delighted to arrange / make plans with you or for you!