Spiny Dogfish
Squalus suckleyi
Also known as: Dogfish; Dog Shark; Mud Shark
Size & Weight
Average Length
37.8"
Max Length
63.0"
Average Weight
3.0 lbs
Max Weight
22.0 lbs
Lifespan
80 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 2400 ft
Water Temp
45-55°F
Continental shelf; schools; migrate seasonally; all depths
Behavior
Spawning Season
Winter mating; 18-24 month gestation
Migration: Highly migratory; large schools move north in summer
Diet: Fish; squid; shrimp; crabs; worms
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round
Techniques: Often bycatch; bottom fishing
Best Bait: Cut bait; fish
Eating Quality
Edibility
Fair
Mild if prepared properly; common in UK fish & chips
State Records
Washington
20.25
lbs
Fun Facts
Venomous spines on dorsal fins; extremely long gestation (up to 2 years); very long-lived
How to Identify
Small gray shark; pointed snout; venomous spine in front of each dorsal fin; lacks anal fin; found at depth
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; 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 | — | 37.8 |