SESIMBRA FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Chasing Chocos off Sesimbra: A Daylong, Traditional Squid Fishery in the Arrábida
An expert-led, full-day outing that teaches the traditional art of pesca aos chocos in the calm, productive waters of the Arrábida Natural Park — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Chasing Chocos off Sesimbra: A Daylong, Traditional Squid Fishery in the Arrábida.
Embark from the sheltered Porto de Abrigo in Sesimbra for a ten-hour, hands-on fishing experience focused on catching chocos (Sepia officinalis). The outing moves through the placid, biodiverse waters of the Arrábida Natural Park, where local techniques and bait are used to target this emblematic mollusc while onboard crew provide instruction in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Targeting the Choco (Sepia officinalis)
The activity centers on pesca aos chocos, a traditional local fishery for the cuttlefish-like Sepia officinalis, abundant along Sesimbra’s coast and a cornerstone of regional cuisine.
Sailing the Arrábida Natural Park
You’ll navigate the calm, rich waters of the Arrábida Natural Park from Sesimbra’s sheltered harbor, a scenic marine landscape that provides the backdrop for the day’s fishing and instruction.
Traditional Gear and Drift Techniques
The crew uses specific bait and drifting techniques — commonly employing palhaços as lure — and will teach or refine those methods for participants of all experience levels.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
From a morning briefing at Sesimbra’s Porto de Abrigo to a day spent drifting and casting in the Arrábida’s sheltered bays, the trip is paced for learning and leisure. Crew members provide bait and demonstrate the specific techniques for pesca aos chocos; participants of any age can join in, alternating relaxed sea time with focused moments at the lines as the boat works the productive coastal waters.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits best
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full-day experience lasting approximately 10 hours; check the operator’s schedule when booking.
Departure is from Porto de Abrigo de Sesimbra — arrive at the harbor for check-in prior to boarding.
Bring your willingness to fish — the operator supplies the specific bait and teaches the techniques used for pesca aos chocos.
The outing is designed to be fun, relaxed and suitable for all ages and experience levels; follow crew guidance for a safe trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Pesca aos Chocos outing?
The trip runs approximately 10 hours.
Where do we meet for departure?
Participants meet at the Porto de Abrigo de Sesimbra for check-in and boarding.
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No — the experience is suitable for all ages and levels; the crew provides instruction on bait and techniques.
Will the operator provide bait and gear?
Yes — specific bait and the techniques for pesca aos chocos are provided and taught aboard.
What species are we targeting?
The outing targets chocos (Sepia officinalis), a traditional and locally appreciated species along Sesimbra’s coast.