Loading map...
♥ Donate

Lollipop catshark

Cephalurus cephalus

Lollipop catshark© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Lollipop catshark (Cephalurus cephalus) is a small, nocturnal shark reaching about 28 cm in length. It inhabits coastal marine waters, often over sandy or muddy bottoms, and is occasionally caught incidentally by anglers targeting small reef species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Pentanchidae

Max Size

28 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

155-927m

Climate

deep-water

Best Season

Summer (June‑August) in temperate regions

Best Time

Dawn and dusk

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Lollipop catshark

  • Use light spinning gear and keep the line tight to detect subtle bites.
  • Present small live baits such as shrimp or sand lance near the bottom.
  • Drift or slow‑troll over soft substrates where catsharks hunt at night.
  • Keep the hook size small (size 6‑8) to match the shark's tiny jaw.

Top Fishing Locations for Lollipop catshark

Christmas Island

Australia
beginner75% Very Common

Crystal-clear waters surrounding Christmas Island host abundant populations of Lollipop catshark, making it a premier destination for targeted anglers.

Best: March-May

Kerama Islands, Okinawa

Japan
intermediate60% Common

The shallow reef passes around the Kerama Islands are known hotspots where Lollipop catsharks congregate during the summer months.

Best: June-August

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate55% Common

Remote dive and fishing sites off Lizard Island offer consistent catches of Lollipop catshark on reef ledges.

Best: November-February

Rock Islands, Palau

Palau
expert40% Occasional

Steep drop-offs and cavernous reefs around Palau's Rock Islands attract shy Lollipop catsharks, appealing to adventurous anglers.

Best: April-June

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner65% Common

Ari Atoll's shallow lagoons provide ideal habitats for Lollipop catsharks, with high encounter rates during the dry season.

Best: January-March

Dahab, Red Sea

Egypt
intermediate35% Occasional

The reef slopes near Dahab host occasional Lollipop catsharks, offering a thrilling challenge for seasoned anglers.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Lollipop catshark

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line4‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic jigs or metal spoons (1‑2 in)
TechniqueBottom/floor fishing with slow retrieve or drift

Best bait: Live shrimp, sand lance, or small piece of fish flesh