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Lesser spotted dogfish

Scyliorhinus canicula

Lesser spotted dogfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Lesser spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) is a small shark commonly found in coastal European waters. Though modest in size, it is sought after by anglers for its steady bite and the challenge of landing a shark. Its flesh is edible but not highly prized.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Scyliorhinidae

Max Size

100 cm

Max Weight

3.7 kg

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

10-780m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Spring and early summer, though it can be caught year-round

Best Time

Dawn and dusk, when it moves closer to the bottom

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Lesser spotted dogfish

  • Use fresh squid or cut baitfish near the bottom
  • Fish with a weighted rig or drop-shot to keep the bait near the seabed
  • Target areas with sandy or muddy substrates where dogfish hunt for crustaceans
  • Retrieve slowly and be prepared for a short, steady fight

Top Fishing Locations for Lesser spotted dogfish

Cornwall Coast – Falmouth Bay

United Kingdom
beginner70% Very Common

Shallow rocky reefs and sandy bottoms with abundant kelp provide ideal habitats for lesser spotted dogfish; easy access from the harbor and popular with local anglers.

Best: June to August

Brittany, France – Baie de Saint-Brieuc

France
intermediate60% Common

A semi‑protected bay with mixed substrate; the dogfish congregate in autumn as they move to deeper waters, making it a reliable target for dedicated anglers.

Best: September to November

Balearic Islands – West Coast of Mallorca

Spain
intermediate55% Common

Clear Mediterranean waters around the cliffs of Cala d'Or host dense dogfish populations; night drops with light attract them in large numbers.

Best: May to July

North Sea – Skagerrak, Norway – Tønsberg Fjord

Norway
expert45% Occasional

Cold, nutrient‑rich fjord waters support healthy dogfish numbers; accessible by boat from Tønsberg, but requires cold‑weather gear.

Best: July to September

Algarve Coast – Praia da Rocha, Portugal

Portugal
beginner65% Common

Rocky outcrops and kelp forests near the popular beach attract dogfish; high tourist traffic makes it a convenient spot for day trips.

Best: April to June

Outer Hebrides – Lewis, Scotland – Loch Seaforth

United Kingdom
expert30% Occasional

Remote loch with deep channels where dogfish gather in spring; a bucket‑list location for serious shark anglers seeking solitude.

Best: April to May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Lesser spotted dogfish

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium-action spinning or conventional rod, 6-7 ft
Line10-20 lb test mono or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeN/A
TechniqueBottom fishing with a sinker-weighted rig

Best bait: Fresh squid, cut herring, or sand lance