Bull Huss

Distribution:

The Bull Huss is another species of 'Cat-Shark' and  is a close relative of the Dogfish but grows a lot bigger. Its apearance is very similar to the Dogfish but its dorsal fin is set further back and its nose has different nostrils. There are small populations scattered along the East coast but it is the South and West coasts that produce the numbers of these sharks. Mayo, Galway and Clare are top spots for these big straps of muscle. West Cork also throws up decent fish. Dublin and Cahore can throw up a few good fish each year too but they are scattered fish. Kerry is another hot spot. The record fish was taken at Valentia island in 1983 of 23lb 12oz.

Unlike its cousin the Dogfish, the Bull Huss prefers rough ground where it can hide and feed as an opertunist. Mixed rocky ground and reefs and areas that have kelp beds. The 'Huss' likes depths between 60 ft and 330 ft although they can be caught in shallower depths in bad light conditions.

Habitat:

Season:

Bull Huss can be prolific all year round although their numbers begin to rise around May and stay right through to November when their numbers start to drop off. This may be merely due to the fact that less anglers fish from boats in the winter and that the fish simply head for deeper water.

Baits:

The Bull Huss feeds primarily on squat lobsters, crabs, shrimps and other crustaceans. Oysters and other moluscs such as welks also feature in their diet as do small fish. The best bait however, is undoubtedly fish. A half Mackeral flapper is an excellent bait as is Sandeel or a full Launce.

Tides and Weather:

Bull Huss seem to prefer calmer conditions. During rough weather fish can still be caught but less so. This might be due to faster movement of the bait and snagging in rough ground. Also less boaters fish during rough weather and thus less fish are caught...

Tactics:

Fishing for Huss is generally done at anchor over rough or mixed ground. Gravel can also produce this shark as can sand around close to a feature. Snood lengths should be kept to about 3 ft  using a 4/0 - 6/0 hook. There is no need for a wire trace  as the mouth of a Huss is similar to that of a Dogfish. Fishing for Huss is similar to Conger fishing and takes patience. A strong leader line of 50 lb is recomended due to the rocky nature of the ground these Sharks inhabit. Bull Huss are not noted for their fighting qualities but can make a nice change to small fish when you want a nice rod bender.  They are often caught as a biproduct when fishing for Conger eel or Ray.

Bull Huss Profile

Back to Home Page

Back to Species List