Grongo refers to the European Conger Eel (Conger conger), a marine species found in European waters. This large, powerful eel plays a significant role in marine ecosystems due to its size and predatory habits. It is distributed throughout the Eastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea.
Understanding the Conger Eel
The European Conger Eel has a distinctive elongated, snake-like body that is smooth and scaleless. Its coloration ranges from grey-blue to grey-black, often with a white or pale golden underside. It features prominent pectoral fins and a long dorsal fin that extends nearly the length of its body, merging with the caudal and anal fins. The head is somewhat conical, with a rounded snout and rows of conical teeth in its wide mouth, where the upper jaw slightly protrudes over the lower.
Conger eels are among the largest eels globally by weight, with adults reaching 1.5 to 3 meters (5 to 9.8 feet) in length. Average specimens weigh 2.5 to 25 kilograms (5.5 to 55.1 pounds), but some exceed 100 kilograms (220 pounds). Females grow larger than males. They are primarily nocturnal predators, resting during the day in rocky crevices, holes, or shipwrecks.
They prefer rough, rocky, and broken ground along coastlines, but also inhabit sandy bottoms where they may burrow. Conger Eels inhabit depths from the surface to 500 meters (1,640 feet), descending to 3,600 to 4,000 meters (11,800 to 13,120 feet) during spawning migrations. Their widespread distribution spans the Eastern Atlantic from Norway and Iceland down to Senegal, encompassing the Mediterranean and Black Seas.
Fishing for Grongo
Fishing for European Conger Eels, or Grongo, demands robust tackle due to their size and fighting ability. Anglers use strong boat rods, often around 2.5 meters, paired with sturdy multiplier reels holding heavy fishing line. Leaders of 100-150lb monofilament or wire are necessary to withstand the eel’s sharp teeth. Large hooks, 6/0 to 10/0, are common, ensuring a secure hook-set for large baits.
Effective baits for conger eels include oily fish like mackerel, herring, pollock, or whiting, used as whole flappers, head sections, or large fillets. Squid and cuttlefish are also successful. Fresh, smelly baits that release a strong scent trail attract these nocturnal predators from their hiding spots. Anglers often puncture whole fish baits to enhance their scent dispersion in the water.
Conger eels are nocturnal, making night fishing most productive, especially in shallower coastal waters. They are often found in rough ground areas like rocky reefs, shipwrecks, and artificial structures, which provide hiding places. When a conger takes the bait, the initial bite can be subtle, but once hooked, they exhibit powerful, often backward, swimming and bolt for the nearest snag or crevice. Anglers must apply immediate, strong pressure to prevent the eel from retreating into cover, as this can lead to lost fish and tangled lines.
Grongo in Cuisine
Grongo, or European Conger Eel, is a popular food fish in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. Its firm, meaty, white flesh and rich flavor make it a versatile ingredient, despite numerous pin bones. The flavor is mild, sometimes compared to cod, and its texture can be firm or slightly chewy, especially if overcooked. Some sources note a pork-like quality to the texture.
In Mediterranean regions, conger eel is prepared in hearty dishes like stews and soups, where its robust flavor shines. Traditional recipes include “caldereta de congrio” in Spain and “Caldeirada” in Portugal, involving simmering the eel with vegetables and aromatic herbs in flavorful broths. It is also grilled, baked, or fried, often served as steaks.
Beyond culinary appeal, conger eel is valued for its nutritional content. It provides lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Like other eels, it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to heart health, and contains vitamins A, E, and selenium. While the tail section can be bony and is sometimes used for stock, middle sections of larger fish are preferred for their meatier cuts.
Handling Conger Eels Safely
Handling a European Conger Eel requires careful attention due to its powerful bite, sharp teeth, and slippery body. These eels can inflict serious injury, and their ability to play dead adds to the challenge of safe management. Even after being caught, they can remain alive out of water for extended periods.
Specialized tools are recommended for safe handling. A T-bar unhooking tool allows anglers to remove hooks without placing hands near the eel’s mouth. Heavy-duty gloves offer protection against their teeth and help maintain a grip on their slimy skin. For larger specimens, a gaff provides extended reach and leverage to control the fish.
When a conger eel is brought aboard, subdue it quickly and efficiently. Some anglers stun the eel with a heavy object to the back of the head, though this may not be fatal and the eel can still revive unexpectedly. Keep fingers and other body parts away from their jaws at all times. If the hook is deeply set and cannot be easily removed with a T-bar, it is safer to cut the line as close to the mouth as possible, as the eel’s digestive acids can dissolve the hook over time.