Lampuki season in Malta: the tasty September catch

September in Malta means one thing: lampuki. This fish swims past the islands of Malta and Gozo in huge schools when summer starts to fade. It’s a yearly tradition and a delicious reason to explore the Maltese coast.

When September becomes fish heaven

So, September is the peak of the lampuki season. Early mornings you’ll see the Maltese luzzu boats heading out. These wooden boats are amazing and have bright blues, yellows and reds and the famous painted eye on the bow. The fishermen set their nets and by midday the catch is on the market.  How locals cook lampuki Lampuki is mild and slightly sweet. Its white flesh stays juicy on the grill or in the pan. Maltese families love lampuki pie – a golden pastry filled with fish, spinach, cauliflower, olives and capers. Others keep it simple: grilled with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil. In Gozo you might find it fried with garlic and fresh herbs. Every bite tastes is asking for more!

Visit the villages that live for fish

For the full experience, head to Marsaxlokk, Malta’s most famous fishing village. On Sunday the waterfront turns into a busy fish market. Stalls with lampuki, prawns, squid and more. The smell of the sea, the shouting of sellers and the view of colourful boats are the recipe for a great Sunday morning. Gozo has smaller but charming spots like Mgarr and Marsalforn, where the catch of the day often goes straight from boat to plate.

Other seafood worth a try

Lampuki might steal the spotlight, but Malta’s waters offer plenty more. Think fresh tuna, tender swordfish, juicy octopus and sweet shellfish. Many menus mix local seafood with Italian flavours. Expect pasta with squid ink, grilled fish with caper sauce and platters of raw tuna with olive oil.

Top places to eat fish

Hungry already? In Marsaxlokk, Tartarun and La Nostra Padrona are local favourites for lampuki and other catches. Valletta, Malta’s capital, has stylish spots  where chefs play with Mediterranean flavours. In Gozo, Il-Kartell in Marsalforn is perfect for a sunset dinner with the sound of waves. Ask for the catch of the day and you’ll get fish that was still swimming that morning.

Make it a tour to remember

Want more than a meal? Join a Malta tour that visits fishing villages and coastal markets. Watch fishermen unload their nets, snap photos of the colourful boats and taste lampuki straight from the grill. Include a ferry trip to Gozo to see quiet harbours and small restaurants with sea views. September is the best time to taste, explore and fall a little in love with Malta’s seafood culture.

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