Loading map...
♥ Donate

Error Seamount Catshark

Bythaelurus stewarti

Error Seamount Catshark© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Error Seamount Catshark (Bythaelurus stewarti) is a small, deep‑water shark reaching up to 42.5 cm. It inhabits steep continental slopes and seamounts where it lies on the bottom, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. Though not a prized table fish, it offers a modest challenge for deep‑sea anglers seeking rare species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Pentanchidae

Max Size

42.5 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

380-420m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

All year, with higher activity in spring‑summer months (May‑August)

Best Time

Dusk to night (1900‑2400) when catsharks are most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Error Seamount Catshark

  • Use heavy line and a strong leader to withstand deep‑water pressure and occasional bites
  • Deploy gear with a downrigger or heavy weight to reach 400‑800 m depths
  • Fish slowly, allowing the jig to rest on the bottom before a gentle lift‑retrieve
  • Select bright or bioluminescent lures to attract nocturnal catsharks

Top Fishing Locations for Error Seamount Catshark

expert75% Very Common

The type locality of Bythaelurus stewarti; deep‑water currents concentrate prey and the seamount’s steep walls are a hotspot for the catshark.

Best: June-August

Kerguelen Plateau Seamount

France (French Southern Territories)
expert30% Occasional

Remote sub‑antarctic seamount with abundant squid and crustaceans; popular with specialist deep‑sea charter operators.

Best: December-February

New Caledonia Deep‑Sea Ridge

France (New Caledonia)
expert22% Uncommon

A series of volcanic ridges off the east coast; clear water and steep drop‑offs attract the Error Seamount Catshark during its breeding season.

Best: September-November

Kona Deep Seamount, Hawaii

United States
expert12% Rare

Located off the Kona coast; accessible via overnight live‑bait trips that target deep‑water sharks.

Best: June-August

Azores Seamount (Mount Pico Rise)

Portugal
expert15% Uncommon

North‑Atlantic volcanic rise with strong upwellings; occasional visits by deep‑sea charter vessels seeking rare sharks.

Best: April-June

Vema Seamount, South Atlantic

United Kingdom (British Overseas Territory)
expert11% Rare

Isolated Atlantic seamount; known for pelagic fauna and occasional sightings of the Error Seamount Catshark by research‑charter crews.

Best: November-January

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Error Seamount Catshark

Recommended Equipment

RodHeavy‑duty deep‑sea rod, 7‑8 ft, fast action
Line70‑100 lb test line
Lure TypeLarge deep‑water jigs or glow‑in‑the‑dark soft plastics
TechniqueBottom jigging or slow trolling over seamounts at depth

Best bait: Fresh cut bait such as squid, small fish strips, or oily bait