Sonsos
(Sand Eel)
Sonso is the Catalan name for two varieties of the sand eel species, namely the Mediterranean sand eel (Gymnammodytes cicerelus), and the smooth sand eel (Gymnammodytes semisquamatus), both of which inhabit the sandy, coastal Catalan region between Arenys de Mar and L’Estartit.
The sand eel is a short-lived species that is characterized by a long, slender, and silvery body with whitish belly and flanks, with the Mediterranean sand eel reaching a length of 17 cm, while the smooth sand eel usually reaches up to 28 cm in length.
The sand eel season starts on March 1 and lasts through December 16, and the fish are sourced from the shallow waters, usually at depths of 6 to 16 meters with a maximum authorized depth of no more than 30 meters. The artisanal fishing of sonsos using sonseras (traditional boat seines) is strictly regulated, and it traditionally takes place in the following ports: Arenys de mar, Badalona, Barcelona, Calella, Blanes, L’Estartit, Palamós, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, and Tossa de mar. Read more
Sand eels can be found at fish markets and stores in the region, and they can be eaten at restaurants along the coast. One of the best and most common ways to enjoy these small fish is crispy fried as a delicious seafood tapa alongside a glass of the local white wine, D.
O.Alella.
