Shovelnose Guitarfish
The shovelnose guitarfish is a ray-like fish found in the Eastern Pacific, ranging from California to Mexico. Recognized by its flattened body and long, pointed snout, it inhabits sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. This species is known for its ability to burrow in sand during the day and hunt small fish and invertebrates at night. It is ovoviviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young after internal fertilization.
Length~100 (max 140)
Weight~18 (max 22)
WaterSalt
Water Temp18-25° F
Depth2-12 ft
- Other names-
- Length~100 (max 140)
- Weight~18 (max 22)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp18-25° F
- Depth2-12 ft
Popular lures for Shovelnose Guitarfish
Regulation for Shovelnose Guitarfish
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit1
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size150 cm
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Shovelnose guitarfish are typically found in shallow coastal waters, especially sandy or muddy bottoms
- They often inhabit bays, estuaries, and seagrass beds, where they find food and shelter
- This species is nomadic and gregarious, sometimes found alone but often in groups
- It feeds mainly on crabs, worms, clams, and small fishes, foraging primarily at night
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Shovelnose guitarfish are ovoviviparous, with females carrying the young internally before giving birth
- Mating occurs in shallow bays and estuaries, where adults gather during the breeding season.
- The gestation period lasts about a year, and females can give birth to multiple pups in a litter
- After pupping, adults leave the shallow waters and return for the next mating season