Every day, colourful boats return to Imsouane’s little port with their catch. Learn when to visit the fish market, how buying works, which fish you can find and how to get your own fish grilled on the spot.
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Every day, colourful boats return to Imsouane’s little port with their catch. Learn when to visit the fish market, how buying works, which fish you can find and how to get your own fish grilled on the spot.
Long before it became a surf destination, Imsouane was, and still is, a fishing village. Every day, colourful wooden boats head out into the Atlantic and return with their catch to the small port, where it is sold on the spot. Visiting the fish market is one of the most authentic experiences in Imsouane, and buying your own fish to have it grilled is a highlight of any trip. Here is how it works.
Imsouane’s port sits at the edge of the village, next to The Bay. Small blue and white boats line the slipway, nets are mended on the quay and fishermen sort the catch as seagulls circle overhead. It is a working port, not a tourist attraction, so be respectful and stay out of the way of people working.
The boats usually return from late morning to the afternoon, depending on the weather and the season. The best time to go is when the boats are coming in: ask your accommodation or a local for the day’s timing. On stormy days the boats may not go out at all, and there won’t be any fresh catch.
Fish is often sold directly from the boats or at simple stalls near the port. Sometimes there is an informal auction, with traders bidding for whole boxes. As a visitor you can usually buy a few fish directly:
The catch changes every day, but common finds on this coast include:
Ask the fishermen what came in today. They’ll be happy to recommend.
The best part: you don’t need a kitchen. Several small restaurants and grills near the port will clean and cook the fish you bought, usually for a small fee, and serve it with salad, bread and sauce. Agree on the price for the cooking before ordering. Explore restaurants in our cafés and restaurants guide.
The port is one of the most photogenic places in Imsouane, especially in the golden light of late afternoon. Take wide shots of the boats freely, but always ask before photographing people up close. Some fishermen prefer not to be photographed.
Watching the boats come in, choosing your fish and eating it grilled by the sea is one of the simplest and best experiences in Imsouane. Read more about local dishes in what to eat in Imsouane, and see the other must-see places in the village.
Don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly local team knows Imsouane inside out and is happy to help you plan your trip.
+212 613 373 911
hello@imsouaneguide.com