MOON TIDE — Traditional octopus fishing

Documentary photography exploring Bahia’s marine territory

In southern Bahia, there are days when the sea withdraws just enough to reveal what usually remains submerged. The coral emerges whole. Alive. Sharp.

During this period — known locally as the moon tide — traditional octopus fishing takes place. No diving. Only on foot, across the exposed reef.

The traces of dens appear in the remains of crabs left behind. Subtle signs for those who have learned to read the seafloor.

The practice follows the lunar rhythm and the memory of the territory. Knowledge shaped by the slow time of the tides and passed down through generations.

This photographic essay documents traditional octopus fishing during low tide on the coral reefs of southern Bahia. Carried out on foot over the exposed reef, the practice reveals a direct relationship between community, lunar cycles, and coastal territory.

The work is part of an ongoing authorial research project dedicated to documentary photography on Brazil’s maritime cultures and natural landscapes.

“TERRITORY IS NOT LANDSCAPE, IT IS PRACTICE, TIME, AND SURVIVAL.”