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Cinder cloudy catshark

Scyliorhinus hachijoensis

Cinder cloudy catsharkAI-generated illustration

The Cinder cloudy catshark (Scyliorhinus hachijoensis) is a small, nocturnal shark found in temperate coastal waters of Japan. It reaches just over 40 cm and is sought by niche anglers for its elusive, bottom‑dwelling habits rather than its size or table value.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Scyliorhinidae

Max Size

41.6 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Spring to early summer (April‑June)

Best Time

Nighttime, especially dusk to early night

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Cinder cloudy catshark

  • Use light tackle with a 4‑6 lb test line to feel subtle bites
  • Employ small soft‑plastic shrimp or jig heads as bait near the bottom
  • Fish over rocky reefs or drop‑offs where catsharks hide during the day
  • Retrieve slowly with occasional pauses to let the lure sink and mimic prey

Top Fishing Locations for Cinder cloudy catshark

Hachijo Island

Japan
beginner75% Very Common

A volcanic island south of Tokyo renowned for its deep surrounding waters where the Cinder cloudy catshark aggregates during its breeding season.

Best: April-October

Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands

Japan
intermediate65% Common

Remote archipelago with steep drop-offs and pristine reefs; a hotspot for night‑time shark dives targeting this species.

Best: May-September

Izu Peninsula

Japan
beginner55% Common

Coastal kelp forests and rocky ledges provide accessible fishing grounds where catsharks are frequently caught from shore launches.

Best: June-September

El Nido, Palawan

Philippines
expert12% Rare

Clear tropical waters with deep channels attract occasional wandering Cinder cloudy catsharks, making it a coveted but low‑yield destination.

Best: November-February

Kenting National Park

Taiwan
intermediate30% Occasional

Rocky outcrops and drop‑off zones off the southern tip of Taiwan host seasonal visits by the catshark during spring currents.

Best: March-May

Lifou, New Caledonia

New Caledonia
expert5% Rare

A bucket‑list location where the species is a rare trophy; deep reefs require advanced gear and experienced crews.

Best: October-December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cinder cloudy catshark

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, medium action
Line4‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic shrimp or jig heads (1‑2 in)
TechniqueBottom jigging or slow drift with bait near structure

Best bait: Live shrimp, small fish chunks, or squid strips