caño

Caço refers to a type of fishing net used primarily in Portugal. It is a hand-operated seine net, typically small and operated by one or two people from the shore or a small boat. The net is characterized by its relatively short length and depth, with weights along the bottom edge to keep it submerged and floats along the top edge to keep it at the surface.

The operation of a caço involves casting the net into the water, allowing it to sink and spread out, and then hauling it back in. The net is often used in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers to catch small to medium-sized fish. It is particularly effective for species that school near the shore. The design of the caço allows for relatively simple and accessible fishing, making it a popular method for artisanal fishermen and for recreational purposes.

The specific dimensions and mesh size of a caço can vary depending on the target species and the fishing location. In some regions, local regulations may govern the use of caço nets, including restrictions on size, mesh, and permitted fishing areas. This traditional fishing technique has been passed down through generations and remains a part of Portugal's maritime heritage.