Common Octopus
Octopus vulgaris
FR Poulpe commun · ES Pulpo común · PT Polvo-comum · IT Polpo comune · DE Gemeiner Krake
Also known as: OctopusPulpo comúnPoulpe communGemeiner KrakePolpo comunePolvo-comum
CephalopodShoreBoat
Cephalopod
Score
—
Prime time
Night and low light; autumn–winter peaks in many areas.
Depth
0–100m
Platform
Shore & boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Sep–OctGood Jun–Nov
Depth range
0–100mDeep
Best fishing techniques
Vertical / shore jigging60%
Preferred seabed
Mixed
Findr bio
Catch me at night and low light; autumn–winter peaks in many areas. Egi-style jigs and a tide change are enough...
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
Rocky shoreShallow waterWreck reef
Recommended baits
EgisFish baitsSquid
Diet
CrabBivalvesSmall fishSnails
Effective techniques
Bottom FishingRunning Ledger
Gear
Best times
Night
Master of disguise — I taste with my arms and can unscrew jars for fun.
Field notes
Where to find them
Atlantic (Iberia), Mediterranean
Where they hang out
Breakwaters, harbour walls and rough patches 2–20 m—classic pier target at night.
Prime time
Night and low light; autumn–winter peaks in many areas.
Tide game
Low–moderate; prefers gentle movement around rocky ground.
What they're into
Egi-style octopus jigs, fish/squid baits
Temperature vibe
Prefers mild–warm seasons inshore; cold pushes them deeper.
Fave weather
Clear water and light swell help; stirred-up water after storms fishes poorly.
Fun fact about me
Master of disguise — I taste with my arms and can unscrew jars for fun.
Dinner material?
10/10Excellent eating
Play by the rules
Local seasons/limits and gear rules apply; pots/traps regulated in many regions.Spain MAPA/CCAA; Portugal DGRM; Italy MIPAAF.
Looking after them
Least Concern
Other regions where you can target Common Octopus