This paper deals with the marine fisheries off the West African coast, between the Straits of Gibraltar and Mauritania, an area which is characterized by its relatively narrow continental shelf, the presence of the Canary Current, and intensive upwelling resulting in very high primary production and rich bottom fauna.The main fisheries (for sardines, sardinellas, hakes, sparids, cephalopods, and demersal crustaceans) are analyzed with regard to their evolution, species composition, fishing areas and seasons, the biological characteristics of the exploited stocks, and the effect of fishing on them.The criteria to be considered when planning the control and regulation of these fisheries are also analysed.