Origin of the Lamprey

Delights of the Minho River

Lamprey is a unique and flavorful delicacy originating from the waters of the majestic Minho River, located in northern Portugal and northwestern Spain.

Celebrated for its scenic beauty and rich aquatic biodiversity, the Minho River provides the ideal environment for the lamprey, a prehistoric fish that has evolved to become one of the region's most prized delicacies.

The lamprey is a migratory fish that undergoes a truly fascinating life cycle. Its journey begins in rivers, where lamprey larvae are born and spend their first years feeding and growing. They then migrate to the sea, where they continue to develop before returning to the rivers to reproduce.

This life cycle plays a crucial role in the unique flavor quality of lamprey. The migration between the river and the sea contributes to the characteristic taste and soft texture that make it such a prized culinary delicacy.

Lamprey fishing in the waters of the Minho River involves the careful use of nets and fishing weirs, traditional techniques that reflect respect for nature and sustainability. The nets, skillfully positioned by the fishermen, are used selectively, allowing for the controlled capture of lamprey during their migration cycle.

Fishing weirs, structures strategically installed along the river, are fundamental elements in this process, providing an efficient and respectful approach to preserving the rich biodiversity of the aquatic environment. These ancestral practices not only highlight the authenticity of lamprey fishing but also emphasize the commitment to preserving river ecosystems.