FISHING-TOURISM ITINERARY: BETWEEN FISHING AND COASTAL WONDERS
DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL AT PORTOPALO DI CAPO PASSERO

The culture of the sea and its resources, the enhancement of the fish and marine heritage, the defense of the biocenosis, pass through the fishing industry: a supplementary activity to the daily fishing that takes place on board fishing boats or small craft fishing. It was initially born as an opportunity to integrate the income of the fishermen who practice it, upon authorization, by hosting on board their boats people different from their crew for the carrying out of tourist - recreational activities. In this way it is possible to observe the professional or sport fishing techniques, the use of baits or special hooks, but above all participate in the spread of a culture of the sea, for a sustainable fishing that respects measures, places, methodologies and fishing times . Fishing tourism can be carried out throughout the year, including holidays and favorable weather and sea conditions, in some cases even at night. The activity is open to everyone, even those under 14 if accompanied by a responsible adult. This itinerary has as a starting point the fishing port of Portopalo di Capo Passero, it being understood that also all other marinas of the territory of the Gac of the two Seas, are organized for fishing tourism. The time of departure and return is agreed according to the needs of tourists and / or weather and sea conditions. Once you leave the port, head south-west, towards the Isola delle Correnti. The batting point is about 2.5 nautical miles from the port. Admire the island, turn its bow to the east and descend the Conzo or Palamito to the sea. It is the oldest of fishing tools: it consists of a variable number of hooks (maximum 200 for non-professional fishermen) that are attached to a single line by means of beams (small pieces of fishing line) and brought to the bottom by appropriate leads. The Conzo, recognizable by floating signals, is left at sea for a period of time at the discretion of the fisherman. During the wait, the boat directs the bow towards the island of Capo Passero, about 5 nautical miles away and slowly circumnavigates it in order to admire it in all its magnificence. Then it heads towards the old Tonnara and the castle Tafuri (a monumental building of the beginning of the century, built as a summer residence by the Marquises of Belmonte). In this beautiful bay it is possible to take a dip. Go back on board, the boat head goes to the point where the Conzo has been lowered, identifying the floats that signal its presence: they will begin the operations of recovery of fishing gear and any catch. All unsuitable fish, if still alive, is rejected in the sea: for each species there is a table of minimum measures to be respected, even if the best meter is in the consciousness of those who fish. The excursion lasts one or half day: it is also possible to have lunch on board for the number of people indicated by the authorizations issued by the Maritime Authority. The return is scheduled in the port of embarkation, unless different needs or special needs.

Source GAC dei due mari