Saltwater Fish of Connecticut
Smooth Dogfish
Mustelus canis
🏆 Connecticut State Record
Harvest20 lb 14 oz · 55.25"John Valentino · 2024 · Long Island Sound
Catch & Release52"Gavin Engels · 2026 · Niantic Bay
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Also called: Dogfish, Sand Shark
Identification
Small, gray-brown shark with no spines in front of the dorsal fins and flat, grinding teeth.
Habitat
Common in Long Island Sound from late spring through fall.
Behavior
Feeds on crabs, lobsters and small fish along the bottom.
How to Catch
Squid or crab baits on the bottom; a strong fighter on light tackle.