On the occasion of the 15th opening of the octopus fishery which took place on October 8 after two months of closure, more than 30 tons of this cephalopod were caught throughout the island during this day. This is the second opening for the current year. According to the authorities, this is a record number never recorded in Rodrigues, since this fishery is regulated. The largest number of octopus was caught in Baie Du Nord and Anse Nicolas, i.e. 7.5 tons. Large size octopuses were caught, up to 7.5 kg per specimen. This is a resource that, a few years ago, was on the verge of extinction.
Whether in Baladirou, Plaine Corail or elsewhere, the octopus fishermen and women started their activities very early. If in some areas the catches were not very attractive, in other areas they were magnificent. And after two to three hours in the water, satisfaction was on everyone’s face. It is obvious that the two-month closure lived up to expectations. The fishermen were obviously extremely happy with the unexpected catch. He adds that this opening is the best one compared to the previous ones.
When the fishermen arrived on the beaches, consumers were present to stock up on octopus.
For, salad of octopus, curry of octopus, rougailles of freshly caught octopus, accompanied by dishes of dry grains were on the menu of the dinner said a consumer.
And just like last February’s opening, there was no official ceremony due to the threat of ‘COVID-19’.
But the opening of this season is marked by the number of fishermen on foot looking for this cephalopod and just like the opening of the seine fishery, many Rodriguans have moved to the seaside to get their ‘big paw’ and as usual.
Previously, the banyan trees made the rain and the good weather with this product. But with octopus in abundance, the price has come down to Rs 50 per pound.
A lady who picks octopus had to say, ” I obtained 42 pounds of octopus and in a day Rs 2,200. But octopus are cheap and this will continue till the end of the day. “
It should be noted that the regulation of the octopus fishery is intended to better manage this resource and allow small octopus to grow. During the opening last February, 18 tons of octopus were caught. The authorities consider that in terms of management, this is a good example of success, because the fraud is decreasing year after year. And during the closed season, the approximately 1,100 fishermen involved in this fishery are deployed on land in alternative work. This costs the Regional Assembly some Rs 15 million each year.
