⚓ Ports
⚓ Ports
Ksar Sghir Traditional Fishing Port
Ksar Sghir traditional fishing port: fishermen’s boats, tuna season, fresh Mediterranean fish sold in central Ksar Sghir, and tips for buying fish.
⚡ In short
The traditional fishing port is the heart of Ksar Sghir’s life by the sea. Every day the boats head out into the Strait and come back with fresh Mediterranean fish, sold in central Ksar Sghir. During tuna season the port is especially lively. A place to discover traditional fishing, photograph the boats and buy fresh fish.
- ⛵ Traditional boats
- 🐟 Fresh fish daily
- 🐋 Tuna season
- 🛒 Sold in central Ksar Sghir
- 📷 Photography
📍 Location
The fishing port is in Ksar Sghir, on the coast of the Strait of Gibraltar between Tangier and Fnideq. It belongs to the municipality of Ksar Sghir, Fahs-Anjra province. Ksar Sghir beach and the archaeological site are close by, so it fits easily into a walk around the town.
⛵ Traditional fishing, passed down the generations
In Ksar Sghir, fishing is a trade handed down from generation to generation. Fishermen set out in colourful wooden boats into the Strait, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, giving the area a great variety of fish. When the boats return, the port comes alive: crates unloaded, nets mended, fishermen chatting. One of the finest scenes to photograph in Ksar Sghir.
🐋 Tuna season
Bluefin tuna pass through the Strait of Gibraltar on their migration between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, so Ksar Sghir has a tuna season, when the port is busier than usual. It is a chance for visitors to see a special side of fishing in the Strait and taste fresh tuna in season.
🐟 Fish by season
The fish vary with the season and the day’s catch. Among the best-known Mediterranean fish in the area:
Bluefin tuna
In season
Sardines and anchovies
The most popular
Sea bream and red mullet
For grilling
Hake and sole
Fried or in a tagine
Squid and octopus
By season
Prawns
Depending on the catch
🛒 Where to buy fish
The fish caught by the port’s boats is sold in central Ksar Sghir. There you’ll find fresh fish straight from the sea that same day, depending on the season. You can cook it where you’re staying, or ask a restaurant in the centre to grill it for you.
- 🌅Go early: there’s more choice in the morning.
- 👀Spot fresh fish: bright eyes, red gills, firm flesh.
- 🧊Keep it cool: bring a cool bag in summer.
- 💬Ask the seller about the fish and how best to cook it.
📷 For photographers
Colourful boats, nets, fishermen at work: the port is ideal for photography. The best light is early morning as the boats return, and before sunset when the sea turns golden. Ask before photographing people.
⚠️ Respect the port
The port is a workplace: don’t get in the way of unloading, keep clear of ropes and machinery, and mind the wet ground. Ask before boarding a boat or photographing anyone.
🚗 Getting there
- 🚌By bus from Tangier: lines I12 and I3 from the train station to Ksar Sghir.
- 🚗By car from Tangier: on the A5 motorway or national road 16.
- 🚕From Fnideq: by grand taxi on national road 16.
❓ FAQ
Where is the port’s fish sold?
In central Ksar Sghir, where you’ll find fresh fish straight from the sea that day.
When is tuna season?
Bluefin tuna cross the Strait on their migration, and the port is busier during the season. Ask the fishermen or sellers in town for the dates.
What fish can I find?
Depending on the season: bluefin tuna, sardines, anchovies, sea bream, red mullet, hake, sole, squid, octopus and prawns.
Can I visit the port?
Yes, as long as you respect the fishermen’s work and ask before taking photos or boarding a boat.
🌊 Nearby
- Ksar Sghir Beach: the area’s main beach.
- Ksar Sghir archaeological site: the circular Marinid town.
- Diki port: a small fishing port west of Ksar Sghir.
- Tanger Med Port: the Strait today.
