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Piked dogfish

Squalus acanthias

Piked dogfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) is a small shark prized by anglers for its abundance and steady bite. It inhabits coastal marine and brackish waters and can grow up to 160 cm, making it a manageable yet rewarding catch.

Fight
Taste
Venomous
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Squalidae

Max Size

160 cm

Max Weight

9.1 kg

Habitat

marine, brackish

Depth Range

0-1978m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Spring and summer

Best Time

Dusk to night

Distribution

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Fishing Tips for Piked dogfish

  • Use a heavy sinker (2‑4 lb) to keep the lure near the bottom where dogfish hunt.
  • Fish over sandy or muddy bottoms near drop‑offs, piers, and estuary mouths.
  • Work the jig with a short, jerky lift‑drop motion to trigger strikes.
  • Retrieve at a slow speed (0.5–1 mph) and be ready for a steady, but not aggressive, fight.

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Piked dogfish

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium‑heavy saltwater rod, fast action
Line20‑30 lb test mono or braid
Lure TypeJigging spoons, metal jigs, soft‑plastic grubs
TechniqueBottom jigging or slow‑retrieved trolling near structure

Best bait: Fresh squid, cut fish strips, or sardine heads