WikiCatch
Cowtail stingray

Cowtail stingray

Pastinachus sephen

Family
Dasyatidae
Max Length
183 cm
Max Weight
18 kg
IUCN Status
NT
Water Type
saltwater, freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
2

Overview

The cowtail stingray is a species of stingray in the family Dasyatidae, widespread in the Indo-Pacific region and occasionally entering freshwater habitats. Other common names include banana-tail ray, drab stingray, fantail ray, feathertail stingray, and frill tailed sting ray. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Dasyatis or Hypolophus. The most distinctive characteristic of the cowtail stingray is the large, flag-like ventral fold on its tail, which is especially prominent when the ray is swimming. This species is targeted by commercial fisheries as a source of high-quality shagreen, a type of leather, and its populations are now under threat from heavy exploitation.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Squid

    Fresh or frozen squid works well.

  • Shrimp

    Use live or dead shrimp.

  • Crabs

    Small crabs are a good choice.

  • Worms

    Earthworms or sandworms can attract them.

  • Small fish

    Pilchards and similar small fish are great.

Artificial Lures

  • Berkley Gulp! SandwormSoft Plastic

    Effective when fished slowly along the bottom.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow F1147Crankbait

    Slow retrieve near sandy bottoms.

    Buy
  • Kastmaster SpoonSpoon

    Silver or gold spoons work well.

    Buy
  • DOA ShrimpSoft Plastic

    Imitates natural prey.

    Buy
  • Bucktail JigJig

    Use a light jighead.

    Buy

Techniques

When fishing for Cowtail stingrays, use a slow retrieve and keep your bait or lure close to the bottom where they feed; target areas near sandy flats or estuaries.

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Where to Find Cowtail stingray

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Cowtail stingray?+

Popular baits for Cowtail stingray include Squid, Shrimp, Crabs, Worms, Small fish. Tip: When fishing for Cowtail stingrays, use a slow retrieve and keep your bait or lure close to the bottom where they feed; target areas near sandy flats or estuaries.

Where can I catch Cowtail stingray?+

Cowtail stingray can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Queensland, Australia. WikiCatch lists 2 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Cowtail stingray get?+

Cowtail stingray (Pastinachus sephen) can reach up to 183.00000400000002 cm in length and 18 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NT.

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