Fish
Chelidonichthys spinosus ・ ホウボウ科
It moves shallow from winter into spring, and because that is also when it fattens before spawning, the catching season and the eating season coincide, which is unusual. In summer the fish scatter into deep water, so the window is short.
Its pectoral fins spread like brilliant blue-green fans. Part of each fin is split into finger-like rays that it uses to walk along the seabed.
It lives over sand and mud, so it turns up in mixed-bag boat fishing and in trips aimed at whiting or flounder. Sea worms and shrimp are the usual baits.
It comes while you are surfcasting for whiting or flounder. Leave a long tail on the worm, keep the rig on the seabed and drag it slowly. The bite is a heavy, deliberate pull, and once hooked the fish does not run far.
Waters: Northern Pacific coast, Southern Pacific coast, Sea of Japan, East China Sea & western Kyushu
Drifting a tairaba over mixed sand while fishing for seabream turns them up regularly. Takes come within five metres of the bottom, so start winding as soon as the lure lands and drop it back after about ten turns.
Areas: Tokyo Bay
Waters: Northern Pacific coast, Southern Pacific coast, Sea of Japan, East China Sea & western Kyushu
Surf casting kit ・ Kit total ¥22,000–60,000
You are swinging a heavy sinker, so checking behind you and keeping distance from others is the core of safety here. The cap and glasses are included as eye protection.
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This fish is dangerous to handle bare-handed.
Sharp spines
It is not venomous, but the two long spines projecting behind the head, the gill-cover spines and the dorsal are all extremely hard and sharp, and gripping it over the head is a certain puncture. It thrashes with its pectoral fins spread, so put it down first, take the jaw with a grip, and only then reach for the hook.
Dangerous fish and animals — what to do when you are stung or bitten
Sashimi, hotpot, or simmered. The translucent white flesh is fine, and the head and frame give a clear, first-rate stock. A winter fish makes notably sweet sashimi.
Best eating: January–March, December
Check the prefectural fishery regulation. On charter boats the skipper's own rules apply as well, so ask before you board.
Closed seasons and size limits — how to find the numbers, which differ by prefecture
This article organises general information and is not legal advice. Rules differ by municipality and by fishery cooperative, and they change. Always check the current rules for where you are going.
Seasons, sizes and eating quality are general guides. Rules change, so check the latest prefectural, fishery-cooperative and site rules before fishing. This app provides general information, not legal advice.