Marsaxlokk came alive on Sunday morning as local fishermen gathered for the traditional blessing of their boats and vessels ahead of the start of Malta’s lampuki season.The ceremony was led by Canon Fr Roderick Baldacchino, bringing together fishermen, their families, representatives from the fishing sector and members of the Marsaxlokk community.Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Supply Minister Anton Refalo was also present for the occasion.The annual tradition comes just days before lampuki season officially begins on 15th August, continuing until the end of the year in line with European regulations based on recommendations by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean.In recent weeks, fishermen have been preparing their kannizzati, using palm leaves to create floating structures which provide shade and attract lampuki towards the surface.Before heading out, boats are equipped with the kannizzati, stones, palm leaves and ropes, which are then placed in positions allocated by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department.The government said it also distributed the palm leaves required by fishermen as part of its support for preparations ahead of the season.“This tradition reminds us of the value of our fishermen and the contribution they make every day to the economy, food security and our country’s maritime identity,” Refalo said.With the boats blessed and preparations almost complete, Malta’s fishermen are now gearing up for the return of one of the islands’ most eagerly awaited fishing traditions.Who else is already looking forward to the first fresh lampuki of the season?•