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White-blotched skate

Bathyraja maculata

White-blotched skate© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The white‑blotched skate (Bathyraja maculata) is a large demersal ray found on soft‑bottom habitats of the North Pacific. Reaching up to 134 cm, it is sought after for its firm flesh and as a challenge for bottom‑fishing anglers, though it is less popular than more aggressive species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Arhynchobatidae

Max Size

134 cm

Max Weight

8.5 kg

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

70-1200m

Climate

deep-water

Best Season

Summer to early fall (June‑September)

Best Time

Dusk to night

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for White-blotched skate

  • Use a heavy‑action saltwater rod with a strong line and a sturdy sinker to keep the rig on the bottom.
  • Fish near known soft‑bottom ledges or drop‑offs where skates feed on crustaceans and small fish.
  • Present fresh baitfish, squid strips, or cut herring on a circle hook and let it sit motionless before a slow retrieve.
  • Fish during low light conditions when skates are most active and more likely to bite.

Top Fishing Locations for White-blotched skate

Unimak Island Deepwater Flats

United States
intermediate52% Common

Cold, nutrient‑rich waters off Unimak Island host dense populations of white‑blotched skate on soft‑bottom habitats at 200‑400 m depth.

Best: June‑August

Bering Sea – Nome Offshore

United States
expert38% Occasional

Deep‑water troughs south of Nome are a classic winter‑to‑spring hotspot where skates congregate on the continental slope.

Best: July‑September

Kodiak Island Shelf

United States
intermediate46% Occasional

The broad shelf surrounding Kodiak offers a mix of soft mud and sand at 150‑300 m, attracting large numbers of white‑blotched skate during the spring melt.

Best: May‑July

Vancouver Island – Deep Fjord Entrance

Canada
intermediate33% Occasional

The entrance to the deep fjords off northern Vancouver Island provides a steady flow of cold water and a prime habitat for this skate species.

Best: August‑October

Hokkaido – Sea of Japan Bottoms

Japan
intermediate57% Common

Soft‑bottomed basins off the western coast of Hokkaido host abundant white‑blotched skate during the warm summer months.

Best: June‑September

Kuril Islands – Iturup Deep Canyon

Russia
expert41% Occasional

A deep canyon system off Iturup Island creates a concentrated prey field, making it a high‑value but technically demanding spot for skates.

Best: July‑September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for White-blotched skate

Recommended Equipment

RodHeavy‑action saltwater rod (7‑8 ft)
Line20‑30 lb test monofilament or 30‑40 lb test braided line
Lure TypeN/A
TechniqueSlow‑bottom rig with a sinker and hook; drift or anchor near depth and let bait sit on the seabed

Best bait: Fresh baitfish, squid strips, or cut herring