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Blackspot picarel

Spicara melanurus

Blackspot picarel© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Blackspot picarel (Spicara melanurus) is a small, silvery marine fish found around rocky reefs and seagrass beds in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic. It is prized by local anglers for its abundance and is commonly used as bait or a modest table fish. Its compact size and schooling behaviour make it an excellent target for light‑tackle anglers.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Sparidae

Max Size

32.8 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

100-250m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Late spring to early autumn (May‑September)

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon when fish are actively feeding near the surface

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Blackspot picarel

  • Use a light 4‑6 lb test line to detect subtle bites from the shy picarel
  • Fish over rocky reefs, seagrass beds, or near piers where they form schools
  • Employ a slow, erratic jigging action to imitate drifting prey
  • Tackle the fish in calm conditions; a steady retrieve helps keep the tiny lure in the fish's strike zone

Top Fishing Locations for Blackspot picarel

Costa Rei Reef

Italy
beginner85% Very Common

A popular reef along Sardinia's south coast known for abundant blackspot picarel populations, especially during summer months.

Best: June-August

Melissani Cave Area

Greece
intermediate78% Very Common

Crystal-clear waters near the Melissani Cave on Kefalonia attract schools of blackspot picarel, ideal for light tackle fishing.

Best: May-September

Larnaca Coastal Reef

Cyprus
beginner80% Very Common

Shallow reef systems off Larnaca host dense picarel schools; easy access from the city makes it a frequent target for locals and tourists alike.

Best: April-October

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
intermediate70% Very Common

Protected marine park in the Red Sea where blackspot picarel gather around coral outcrops, especially during cooler winter months.

Best: October-February

El Hierro Coast

Spain
expert60% Common

Remote basaltic reefs off the smallest Canary Island, offering pristine habitats but requiring boat access and experienced handling of currents.

Best: May-September

Bodrum Peninsula Reefs

Turkey
beginner82% Very Common

Turquoise waters of the Aegean near Bodrum provide abundant picarel, with many local charter boats catering to anglers targeting this species.

Best: June-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Blackspot picarel

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line4‑8 lb test line
Lure TypeTiny soft‑plastic grubs or 1‑2 in jigs
TechniqueLight jigging or surface trolling near structure

Best bait: Live shrimp, small squid pieces, or pilchards