Common pandora

Pagellus erythrinus · Sparidae

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Common pandora
Photo: Julien Renoult · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Best months

March–October

Where

  • Sandy beaches
  • Rocks
  • Deep water

Best time

  • Daytime

Conditions

  • Calm sea

Usual size

20–35 cm

General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.

How to catch it

Methods

  • Bottom fishing

Baits

  • Sea worms
  • Shrimp
  • Squid

The angler's tip

A bottom fish of mixed sand and rock at 20 to 100 m: small hooks with worm or thin squid strips, from a drifting boat.

Easily confused with

Legal minimum size

CountryMinimum sizeSource
Morocco≥ 20 cmSource
Checked 2026-10-25
Portugal≥ 15 cmSource
Checked 2026-10-23

Rules change. Check the official source before you keep a fish; this table is not legal advice.

About this fish

The common pandora, also known as king of the breams, pandora, red pandora or Spanish seabream, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Sparidae, which includes the seabreams and porgies. This fish is found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is an esteemed fish to eat.

From Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to catch Common pandora?

The best months are March–October. Best time of the day: Daytime.

What bait or lure works for Common pandora?

Sea worms, Shrimp, Squid · Bottom fishing.

What is the legal minimum size of Common pandora?

Morocco: 20 cm; Portugal: 15 cm.

Related species

These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.