What the Chain Catshark Is and Where It Lives

The chain catshark is a small deepwater shark found along the continental shelf and slope of the western Atlantic, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and into the Gulf of Mexico. It rarely exceeds 20 inches in length, making it one of the smallest sharks you might encounter. The fish gets its name from the chain-like pattern of dark markings running along its body against a lighter background.

Chain catsharks live in depths between 600 and 2,000 feet, though they are occasionally caught in shallower water during winter months or when fishing near steep drop-offs. They prefer muddy and sandy bottoms where they hunt small fish and crustaceans. Because they spend most of their time far below the surface, most recreational anglers encounter them only when targeting other deepwater species like grouper, snapper, or tilefish.

Key Takeaways

  • Chain catsharks are small deepwater sharks found along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to the Gulf of Mexico at depths of 600 to 2,000 feet.
  • They are rarely the target species but are common bycatch when fishing deep structure with live or dead bait.
  • Federal regulations prohibit retention in most Atlantic waters, so you must release any chain catshark you catch.
  • Winter months and locations near steep continental shelf edges offer the best chance of encountering them.
  • Most chain catsharks are caught on bottom rigs baited with squid, mackerel, or herring while fishing for other species.

Regulations and Retention Rules

Chain catsharks are not retained by most recreational anglers because federal regulations prohibit keeping them in Atlantic waters managed by NOAA Fisheries. The species is protected under the Shark Finning Prohibition Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which means you must release any chain catshark immediately after capture.

State regulations vary slightly, so check your local fishing authority before heading out. Florida, North Carolina, and other coastal states generally follow federal rules, but some may have additional restrictions or reporting requirements if you catch one. Contact your state's fish and wildlife agency or visit their website to confirm current rules for your specific location.

Tackle and Bait for Deepwater Fishing

You will not target chain catsharks directly, but if you fish deep structure, you should be prepared to encounter them. Use a heavy conventional reel spooled with 50- to 80-pound braided line and a sturdy rod rated for depths of 600 feet or more. A basic three-way rig or a simple sliding sinker rig works well for bottom fishing in deep water.

Bait choice matters more than tackle when fishing the deep. Fresh or frozen squid, mackerel, herring, and bonito are all effective. Cut bait works better than whole bait in deep water because the scent disperses faster in the current. Use sinkers heavy enough to keep your rig on bottom in the depth you are fishing—typically 8 to 16 ounces depending on current strength and depth.

Seasons and Locations for Deepwater Fishing

Chain catsharks are present year-round along the continental shelf, but they move into shallower water during winter months when water temperatures drop. This is when recreational anglers fishing from charter boats or private vessels have the best chance of encountering them. Winter fishing off the coasts of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida produces the most chain catshark encounters.

Fish steep drop-offs and ledges where the continental shelf meets deeper water. These transitions concentrate baitfish and attract the small predators that chain catsharks hunt. Charter captains familiar with your region know the exact coordinates of productive structure. If you are fishing on your own, use a fish finder to locate hard bottom and depth changes between 600 and 1,200 feet.

How to Identify a Chain Catshark

Chain catsharks are unmistakable once you see one, though their small size often surprises anglers. Look for a slender body with a flattened head, large eyes, and a pattern of dark chain-like bands or saddle marks running the length of the body. The coloring is typically gray or brown on the back fading to lighter gray or white on the belly. The tail is relatively long compared to body size.

The mouth is small and positioned on the underside of the head, which is typical of bottom-feeding sharks. If you catch one, handle it carefully—the skin is rough and the small teeth can cause minor cuts. Wet your hands before handling to protect the shark's skin, and return it to the water as quickly as possible.

Charter Boats and Guided Deepwater Trips

Most anglers encounter chain catsharks aboard charter boats targeting deepwater species. Captains operating out of ports in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and the Gulf of Mexico regularly fish depths where chain catsharks are common. A typical deepwater charter runs 8 to 12 hours and costs between $400 and $800 per person, depending on the port and season.

Ask the charter captain about the species mix you might encounter before booking. Some captains specialize in grouper and snapper and expect to catch chain catsharks as bycatch. Others focus on tilefish or other species at different depths. Knowing what the captain targets will help you understand what to expect and whether the trip matches your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a chain catshark if I catch one?

No. Federal regulations prohibit retention of chain catsharks in Atlantic waters. You must release any chain catshark immediately after capture. Check your state's regulations to confirm, but most coastal states follow federal rules.

What depth do I need to fish to catch chain catsharks?

Chain catsharks live between 600 and 2,000 feet, though they are most common between 800 and 1,200 feet. Winter fishing in shallower water (400 to 800 feet) occasionally produces them, especially near steep drop-offs.

Are chain catsharks dangerous?

Chain catsharks are small and not aggressive toward humans. Their teeth are small and their bite is not a concern. Handle them with wet hands to protect their skin, and return them to the water quickly.

What is the best time of year to encounter chain catsharks?

Winter months (November through March) offer the best chance because chain catsharks move into shallower water as temperatures drop. Summer fishing in deep water also produces them, but they are less predictable.

Do I need special permits to fish for deepwater species where chain catsharks live?

You need a valid saltwater fishing license for your state. Some states require additional permits for offshore fishing or charter boat trips. Check your state's fish and wildlife website for current requirements before you fish.