What are some names of local eating fish in Bermuda?

Answer 1

The (locally caught, as opposed to imported) fish most commonly eaten by Bermudians are mostly species associated with the reefline, or inshore areas. Some deep sea fish are caught and eaten, as well. Most fish consumed in Bermuda is probably imported, whether sold fresh or in a tin. I will ignore those. The species which were considered most desirable for consumption have been overfished for decades. The most common way to catch them was by submerging wooden-, or pipe-framed, wire mesh-covered cages (called "fish pots") in shallow areas, and returning for them after they had time to gather fish. The cages were baited to lure fish in, and the entry passages tapered inwards, allowing fish to swim in, but not easily to escape. This method of fishing was so effective that it was banned about twenty years ago. It is hoped that over-fished species are being restored.

Some of the types of fish that had been very popular, but are now rarely encountered on a table, include groupers, and hinds. Other fish that have traditionally been popular include grey snappers. Jacks, pompano, hogfish, wahoo, dolphins (increasingly called mahi-mahi, so as not to alarm those thinking they are mammals) and others are popular, as well. Grey mullets are reputed not to be easy to catch, as they will not take a line, but St. David's Islanders traditionally caught them in nets for their roe. St. David's Islanders also caught and ate Atlantic bream, which are traditionally avoided by other Bermudians, who consider them unclean.

Sharks of several types may be caught, and are traditionally prepared as a spiced hash.

Deep water fish include those species caught primarily for sport, which may be eaten. Marlin are very popular with anglers, though I am not certain they are often eaten...especially as most anglers in Bermuda operate on a catch-and-release basis, provided they are not taking part in a tournament that requires returning the catch for measurement and weighing.

Tuna are very common in the deep Atlantic around Bermuda, and tuna fishing boats from Asia and the Philipines have long operated in the area (they are required to be licensed by the Bermudian government, which controls an area within a radius of 200 miles from the island). Swordfish is also popular in Bermuda.