Spain: A Fishing Powerhouse – Fisheries and Maritime Regions
Spain: A Fishing Powerhouse
Fisheries contribute 1% of Spain’s GDP. Spain is a global power in fishing within Europe. The initial expansionary policy, the energy crisis, international maritime law, the fishing crisis, and entry into the EU have all shaped fishing activities.
A Seafaring Tradition
Spain is one of the most traditional countries in fishing, rich in cultures and marine resources. The expansion of the Roman Empire led to increased production methods and fish consumption. The Catalonian and Levantine coasts were the most developed areas. By the eighteenth century, fishing was in decline, mainly due to high competition from other countries’ fleets. In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, there was an increase due to strong demand for fish and improved techniques from the Industrial Revolution.
Natural Factors and Fisheries
Fishing is no longer an activity based on unlimited maritime resources, as these resources are now depleted. Coastal states have enacted measures to extend control. Coastal morphology, sea currents, water temperature, and weather conditions influence fishing activities in Spain by affecting the formation of shoals and the delimitation of continental shelf marine ecosystems. The fishing grounds in Spain are limited, forcing the Spanish fleet to operate in waters outside of Spain.
Spanish Maritime Regions
Northwest Region
This region covers the Galician coast and is the most important fishing area. Major ports include Vigo and Corunna.
Cantabrian Region
This region has a narrow continental platform, except for the Gulf of Biscay. Ports include Pasajes, San Sebastian, Gijon, and Santoña.
South Atlantic Region
This region is important for the quality and value of landed species, especially high-priced crustaceans like prawns, langoustines, and crayfish. Major ports include Algeciras, Huelva, Cadiz, Santa Maria, and Barbate.
Canary Island Region
Production is based on deep-sea fishing. Fishing activities are centered in the port of Las Palmas. Key catches include sardines and octopus.
South Mediterranean Region
This region has a very narrow continental shelf. Landings consist of species of lesser value. The most important port is Almeria.
Levante Region
The species landed are blue whiting and sardine. Principal ports are Alicante, Cartagena, Santa Pola, and Torrevieja.
Tramontana Region
This Mediterranean area has a high amount of fish landed. Key ports include Castellón, Tarragona, Valencia, and Barcelona.
Balearic Region
The fleet consists of small vessels. The most important port is Palma de Mallorca.
Characteristics of the Spanish Fishing Fleet
In 1961, the Act for the renovation and protection of the fleet led to the construction of new boats and rejuvenated the fleet, especially in the Basque region. The Galician crisis of 1973 reduced the fleet but increased its quality. Differences between the Mediterranean and Atlantic fleets were consolidated. The fishing crisis in the second half of the 1970s, the economic crisis, and the limitations imposed by the creation of exclusive economic zones led to a recession in the Spanish fleet, with the Atlantic Fleet being the most affected. Spanish deep-sea fishing vessels predominate in size. Small fleets account for almost two-thirds of the total tonnage in GRT.