RIAS GALEGAS

Rianxo is a beautiful village in the northern part of the Arousa estuary, with a maritime tradition that spans generations. Located in the largest of the Galician estuaries, known as “Rias,” this village is a key reference point for sardine fishing using the traditional “Xeito” technique. Only a very small quantity of sardines is caught through this method, which is certified by both "Pesca de Rias" and "Pesca do Xeito."

The “Xeito” fishing method, especially notable in the Rianxo area, is a very ancient and highly selective fishing technique that results in very little bycatch. One of its main characteristics is that the small sardines are removed from the net one by one, allowing the fish to be carefully
selected and caught in good condition. This is particularly important for the small sardines, which are more delicate than larger ones. “It takes quite a bit of work to untangle them; they need to be handled carefully and gently, or else they fall apart”, says a local fisherman.