Dogfish

Dogfish Fishing Guide – Best Baits, Rigs & Techniques (UK)

What is a Dogfish?

The dogfish, also known as the lesser spotted dogfish or rock salmon, is a small shark species commonly found around the UK coastline. Dogfish are easily recognised by their slender body, brownish-grey colour, and distinctive dark spots along their back.

They typically grow to 2–3ft in length and are known for their tough skin and energetic fight. Dogfish are extremely common and are often caught as by-catch when sea fishing from both the shore and boat.

Where Will I Catch Dogfish?

Dogfish are widespread and can be found:

• All around the UK coastline

• Over sandy, muddy, and mixed ground

• Near reefs, wrecks, and rocky areas

• In estuaries, harbours, and deep water marks

They are present all year round, making them a reliable species when other fish are scarce, particularly in winter.

Best Baits for Dogfish

Dogfish are scavengers with an excellent sense of smell and will take a wide range of baits, especially oily and fish-based options.

Top Dogfish Baits

• Mackerel (fillets or strips – top bait)

• Squid

• Bluey

• Herring

• Sandeel

• Cuttlefish

• Prawns

• Ragworm

• Lugworm

Fresh, smelly baits work best, and dogfish will often hit the bait aggressively.

Best Rigs for Dogfish

Dogfish are not rig-shy, so simple, strong rigs are ideal.

1. Two-Hook Flapper Rig

• Size 2 – 3/0 hooks

• Long flowing snoods

• Excellent for shore fishing

• Covers a wide area of seabed

2. Pulley Rig

• Ideal for rough or mixed ground

• Helps lift fish clear on retrieve

• Great when targeting larger dogfish

3. Boat Fishing Rig

• One- or two-down rig

• Strong mono snoods

• Size 2/0 – 5/0 hooks

• Fish tight to the seabed

Best Techniques for Catching Dogfish

Shore Fishing

• Fish on the ebb and flood tides

• Night fishing is especially productive

• Keep baits static on the seabed

• Expect fast, rattly bites

Boat Fishing

• Anchor or drift over mixed ground

• Fish close to wrecks and reefs

• Heavy leads help hold bottom in tide

Best Time to Catch Dogfish

• All year round

• Peak catches in autumn and winter

• Day or night, but darkness increases success

Tips for Dogfish Fishing

• Use strong hooks and snoods (dogfish have tough mouths)

• Don’t strike too hard — let them take the bait

• Be careful when unhooking (rough skin and sharp teeth)

• Carry long-nose pliers for easy hook removal

Dogfish Fishing Summary

Dogfish are a reliable and hard-fighting species found throughout UK waters. With simple rigs, strong tackle, and oily baits, they can be caught consistently from both shore and boat.