Lampare

Lampare is a term in Italian maritime usage that can refer to both the lights used for night fishing and the vessels that employ them. The practice of pesca con lampare involves using bright artificial lights to illuminate the sea surface in order to attract plankton, small fish, and especially squid, drawing them closer to the vessel for easier catching with nets or jigs. The lamps may be mounted on masts or booms and are typically powered by on-board generators or the ship’s power supply.

The method has its roots in traditional Mediterranean fishing and has been particularly associated with coastal communities in regions such as Sicily, Sardinia, Campania, and Apulia. Lampare fishing became more widespread in the 20th century, evolving with improvements in lamp technology and vessel design. While it remains in use in some areas, it has declined in others due to regulatory changes, resource management concerns, and competition from other fishing methods.

Equipment and operation typically involve high-intensity lights, historically gas or kerosene lamps and more recently electric discharge lamps or LEDs. Modern setups may use multiple lamps to create effective lighting patterns that maximize prey aggregation while allowing the crew to maneuver for harvesting. The activity is labor-intensive and requires careful handling to minimize bycatch and comply with local environmental and fisheries regulations.

Environmental and regulatory aspects are increasingly prominent. Authorities consider light pollution, potential impacts on non-target species such as seabirds, and overall sustainability of cephalopod and fish stocks when crafting rules for lampare fishing, including seasonal and area-based restrictions in some jurisdictions.

See also: fishing methods in the Mediterranean, squid fishing, fisheries regulation.