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Burmese bamboo shark

Chiloscyllium burmense

Burmese bamboo shark© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Burmese bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium burmense) is a small, nocturnal bottom‑dwelling shark found in the coastal waters of Myanmar and surrounding regions. It grows up to about 57.5 cm and is prized by niche anglers for its elusive nature rather than its culinary value.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Hemiscylliidae

Max Size

57.5 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

29-33m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round in tropical waters, with peak activity during the warm rainy season (May‑October)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, when the sharks are most active on the bottom

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Burmese bamboo shark

  • Use a light to medium‑action rod (6‑7 ft) with a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites
  • Employ 30‑50 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon line with a sliding sinker to keep bait near the bottom
  • Bait with fresh oily fish pieces, shrimp, or squid strips; small cut‑bait works best
  • Drift or slow‑troll over known sandy flats and mangrove channels, letting the bait rest on the substrate before retrieving

Top Fishing Locations for Burmese bamboo shark

Great Barrier Reef (Cairns Region)

Australia
intermediate35% Occasional

Rich coral reefs and abundant sandy flats attract Burmese bamboo sharks, especially around the outer reef passes where they hunt nocturnally.

Best: November-April

Similan Islands

Thailand
intermediate45% Occasional

Clear waters and healthy reef ecosystems host resident populations of bamboo sharks; night spear‑fishing and handline targeting yields good results.

Best: February-May

Rock Islands, Palau

Palau
expert25% Uncommon

Steep drop‑offs and deep reef channels provide ideal ambush sites for this nocturnal species, favored by experienced shark anglers.

Best: December-March

Ari Atoll

Maldives
intermediate30% Occasional

Extensive lagoon systems with soft‑bottom patches host seasonal aggregations of Burmese bamboo sharks, especially during monsoon lull periods.

Best: January-April, October-November

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Philippines
expert20% Uncommon

Remote World Heritage site with pristine reefs; sharks are abundant but access is limited, making successful catches rewarding.

Best: March-June

Christmas Island

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

Isolated island with extensive reef flats and deep channels; one of the most reliable global hotspots for Burmese bamboo shark.

Best: May-August

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Burmese bamboo shark

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑7 ft medium‑action spinning or conventional rod
Line30‑50 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeN/A
TechniqueBottom fishing with a sliding sinker and a small hook

Best bait: Fresh fish chunks, shrimp, or squid strips