Smooth dogfish in Florida
Meet the species

Scientific name
Mustelus canis
Overview
Primarily a demersal shark, commonly found in shallow bays, continental shelves, and near offshore banks. Occasionally found in freshwater; although, it’s unlikely they can survive for extended periods of time in low salinities. Known to migrate seasonally into colder waters during spring and move into warmer waters in the fall.
Typical size
Up to 5 feet
At a glance
- Regions
- Statewide atlantic
- Water
- Saltwater
When to fish
Good months
January–december
Where to fish
Florida regions
Statewide atlantic
Water
Saltwater
Habitat
Primarily a demersal shark, commonly found in shallow bays, continental shelves, and near offshore banks. Occasionally found in freshwater; although, it’s unlikely they can survive for extended periods of time in low salinities. Known to migrate seasonally into colder waters during spring and move into warmer waters in the fall.
Videos
- Bait fishing the beach - sand shark / smooth hound / dogfish - after dark · Open original
- Dogfish rig set up! · Open original
- How to catch fish in minutes at the beach · Open original
- Smooth dogfish ( shark ) fillet & release! · Open original
- Video from tiktok.com (source title unavailable) · Open original
- Video from tiktok.com (source title unavailable) · Open original
- Video from tiktok.com (source title unavailable) · Open original
- Video from tiktok.com (source title unavailable) · Open original
Sources
- Myfwc.com (2 pages)
Information comes from the supplied source datasets. Check linked FWC regulations for current rules.