Soupfin Shark
Galeorhinus galeus
Also known as: Tope; Oil Shark; School Shark
Size & Weight
Average Length
46.8"
Max Length
78.0"
Average Weight
15.0 lbs
Max Weight
100.0 lbs
Lifespan
55 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 1560 ft
Water Temp
50-60°F
Continental shelf; nearshore to offshore; schooling
Behavior
Spawning Season
Spring-summer
Migration: Highly migratory; seasonal movements; trans-Pacific possible
Diet: Fish; squid; crustaceans
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Offshore fishing; heavy tackle
Best Bait: Cut fish; squid; mackerel
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good
Mild; valued for fins historically
State Records
Washington
41.0
lbs
California
38.25
lbs
Fun Facts
Once heavily fished for liver oil (vitamin A) in 1940s; recovering; long-lived
How to Identify
Fin soup shark; large dorsal fin; gray coloring; pointed snout; ovoviviparous
Official Resources
Sources: CDFW; WDFW; NOAA
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 46.8 |