Marsaxlokk has welcomed the beginning of Malta’s much anticipated lampuki season with the traditional blessing of fishermen’s boats and vessels, marking an important moment for the local fishing community. 

A Mass and blessing ceremony was held in Marsaxlokk this morning, led by Canon Roderick Baldacchino. The annual tradition remains an important part of Malta’s fishing heritage, bringing together fishermen, their families, representatives from the fishing sector and members of the Marsaxlokk community. 

In preparation for the new season, fishermen have spent recent weeks getting their equipment ready, including preparing the traditional kannizzati using palm leaves. This technique, developed by Maltese and Gozitan fishermen, is used to attract lampuki, which seek the shade provided by the floating structures while remaining close to the surface of deeper waters. As part of its ongoing support for the sector, the Government has also distributed the palm leaves required for these preparations. 

The lampuki season officially begins on the 15th of August, in accordance with European regulations based on recommendations from the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) and runs until the end of the year. 

Before the season gets underway, fishing boats and vessels are equipped with kannizzati, stones, palm leaves and ropes, which are placed at locations allocated by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. 

Lampuki remains one of the most eagerly anticipated catches among Maltese and Gozitan families, strengthening Malta’s rich culinary and cultural heritage each year. 

Do you love to eat lampuki during this season?