Parrotfish are booming due to El Niño, and the government is bringing forward the season: When will they return to markets and ceviche restaurants?

The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) has authorized an exceptional and early start to the 2026-2027 fishing season for the dolphinfish, known locally as perico (Coryphaena hippurus). Driven by an abundance of the species resulting from the El Niño phenomenon, the season is set to begin on September 1, 2026, and will remain in effect through August 30.

This regulatory adjustment enables the return of the resource to local markets and cevicherías ahead of the standard schedule. The measure directly responds to environmental conditions that have caused the species to overflow in local waters, prompting government intervention to manage the unexpected surge in availability.