Monte-Carlo Inspiration

Memories

56

THE WONDERS OF FISHING IN MONACO BAY: PAST AND PRESENT

Les pêches miraculeuses en baie de Monaco d’hier et d’aujourd’hui

life in the old days vie d’antan

G ambaroti, bianchetti, red coral, oysters, sea urchins... These small marine invertebrates once flourished in Monaco’s coastal ecosystem during the 19 th century. Today, with biodiversity at risk, they are protected species.

Lamparo fishing for gambaroti In Monaco, gambaroti have been fished for generations, particularly in late January, earning them the name “Saint Devota shrimp”. Better known as Atlantic krill, these small shrimps aren’t consumed but serve as bait, attracting sea bass, squid, sea bream, conger eel, rock fish, barracuda and dolphinfish... Gambaroti are abundant year-round. Also known as “Saint John’s shrimp”, they are excellent indicators of marine ecosystem health. The high concentration of cetaceans in the Pelagos Sanctuary is partly explained by their dependence on gambaroti. Gambaroti are caught using “lamparo” fishing—a light source that attracts them. While forbidden in France, this practice is permitted in Monaco between January and April for private individuals and pleasure boaters. Savouring Bianchetti Fishing for bianchetti, known as “poutine” in Nice, is typical of the region. These anchovy and sardine fry are a Monaco delicacy, served in a dish called “nonnat”. This highly regulated fishing practice was historically authorised by the Prince of Monaco. Today, about twenty poutine fishermen operate between Cannes and Menton.

Red coral by diving suit Mineral in skeleton, plant-like in appearance but actually an animal, red coral was abundant in Monaco Bay during the 19 th century. Red coral fishing is now prohibited in Monaco. However, it was once a sporting activity, initially using nets dragged along the seabed, later replaced by diving suits. Apple-sized sea urchins Sea urchins, also called “sea chestnuts”, often grew as large as apples. Long permitted during months containing the letter “R”, fishing is now restricted to between 1 st December and 15 th April (dates may vary yearly). Fishermen in traditional pointed boats used long reeds with notched ends. Oyster farms still present The native flat oyster thrives along Monaco’s coastline. In the 19th century, the Journal de Monaco reported “monstrous oysters”. On 11 th February 1862, Prince Charles III granted a concession to establish oyster and Venus clam beds in Monaco’s port. Today, oyster farming continues alongside experimental lobster cultivation... Sample them at “Perles de Monaco” on Fontvieille Port’s quay. But keep it quiet—they prefer to remain a hidden gem... ■

The Monegasque Fisherman as seen by Philibert Florence in 1923. Le Pêcheur monégasque vu par Philibert Florence en 1923. ©Reproduction SBM

Text freely inspired by the book Monaco et la mer by Denis Allemand and Philippe Mondielli, published by Gilletta, March 2024. Texte librement inspiré de l’ouvrage Monaco et la mer de Denis Allemand et Philippe Mondielli, éditions Gilletta, mars 2024