We move back to where Silverio has left a line with hooks baited with sardines.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

For now though, Silverio secures his boat at the marina and prepares to take in his haul.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio turns east along the coast, which looms, a barely discernible shadow, pricked here and there by individual points of light.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio keeps up a constant bantering chatter with Antonio Loi, the mate.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio left a necklace of 150 pots for octopus here yesterday.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio Sandolo backs the Sparviero out into clear water and sends the boat nosing past the sleeping mega-cruisers, trim yachts and other fishing boats not making the dawn run.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio is one of 10 or so fishermen still working out of Villasimius, selling their catch either in the fish market at Cagliari, or to restaurants in the town and others along the coast.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea

Silverio and Antonio grin with pleasure.

BBC: Sardinia, land and sea