Starry smooth-hound
Mustelus asterias
How to catch it
METHODS
Surfcasting Bottom fishing Ledgering
NATURAL BAITS
Peeler crab Hardback crab Hermit crab Squid Mackerel strip Ragworm Prawn Shrimp
BEST TIMES
Dusk Night Afternoon
The starry smooth-hound hunts the seabed for crabs, hermit crabs and prawns rather than fish, crushing them with blunt plates instead of sharp teeth. That makes peeler crab the top bait (fresh and frozen work equally well); without it, try squid combined with mackerel strip or ragworm, and prawn or shrimp also work. Use a single-hook clipped-down rig with a strong pattern 3/0 or so; in calm weather the fish come close in, so casting 60–100 metres is usually enough. Rough seas push them offshore, and catches often pick up as the sun sets.
Source: British Sea Fishing
Regulations
No verified regulation record has been entered for this species yet. Check the current official rules for your area before fishing.
Regulation information is not legal advice. Rules vary by country, region and season; every record shows its source and last verification date. Always check the current official regulations yourself.