When is the best time to catch thornback ray?

The productive window for thornback ray runs March–October. March–July is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.

What water temperature does thornback ray feed in?

Thornback ray is most active between 8 and 17 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.

How do you fish for thornback ray?

Common methods: Bottom fishing, distance surfcasting.

Thornback ray Fishing — Season, Bait and Technique

Raja clavata

Season calendar

Jan

Feb

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct

Nov

Dec

Active periodSpawning period — release what you catch

Season: March–October
Water temperature: 8–17 °C
Spawning: March–July
Behaviour: Flatfish that ambushes from the bottom

Techniques

Bottom fishing
distance surfcasting

Timing

April to October, best on night tides and in darkness.
They come well inshore in coloured water and on big spring tides.

Bait and Method

A single big bait of mackerel fillet, squid or lugworm on a 3/0–5/0 hook.
Anchor with a 100–150 g grip lead and leave the rod alone until it loads properly.
Mind the tail spines: hold the wing edge, never the tail.

Return egg-carrying females quickly with wet hands.

Frequently asked

When is the best time to catch thornback ray?: The productive window for thornback ray runs March–October. March–July is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.
What water temperature does thornback ray feed in?: Thornback ray is most active between 8 and 17 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.
How do you fish for thornback ray?: Common methods: Bottom fishing, distance surfcasting.

Species that fish under similar conditions

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