Bull Huss
Scyliorhinus stellaris
The larger relative of the lesser-spotted dogfish, found over rough and rocky ground. A specimen target on Cork's Mizen Peninsula, best at night on fish baits.
How to identify it
Similar to the lesser-spotted dogfish but considerably larger and more robust. Larger, more widely spaced spots on a brown/sandy background. Nasal flaps (anterior nostril flaps) are distinctly bilobed, separating it from the lesser-spotted dogfish.
How to catch it
Where to find it in Cork
Rules
No rod licence for sea angling
The bull huss, also known as the greater spotted dogfish, is a far more substantial fish than its common relative the lesser-spotted dogfish, and is treated as a genuine specimen target by Cork sea anglers. The two species are frequently confused, but the bull huss can be separated by several features: it is noticeably larger and more powerfully built, its spots are larger and more widely spaced, and — most reliably — the anterior nasal flaps are distinctly bilobed, forming a characteristic divided shape that is clearly different from the simple, undivided flaps of the lesser-spotted dogfish. The background colouration tends toward a richer sandy or tawny brown.
The rough, rocky ground of the Mizen Peninsula is the most productive area for bull huss in County Cork. Marks that hold kelp, boulders and broken rock are preferred habitat, and the species is largely nocturnal in its feeding habits, making night sessions the most productive. Bottom fishing with a fresh mackerel strip, cut generously and mounted on a strong single hook, is the standard method. A running ledger on heavy enough gear to hold bottom over rough ground is required — the fishing environment that bull huss favour tends to be tackle-unfriendly. Strong hooks and abrasion-resistant line are worthwhile investments when targeting this species specifically.
Bull huss are capable of reaching considerably larger sizes than lesser-spotted dogfish, and landing a specimen-sized fish is a meaningful achievement on the Cork shore. Fish encountered from the shore are typically taken during the summer and autumn months, with boat fishing over suitable offshore reef ground extending the season and offering the chance of larger individuals.