WikiCatch
Thornback guitarfish
Platyrhinoidis triseriata
Overview
The thornback guitarfish is a species of ray in the family Platyrhinidae, and the only member of its genus. Despite its name and appearance, it is more closely related to electric rays than to true guitarfishes of the family Rhinobatidae. This species ranges from Tomales Bay to the Gulf of California, generally in inshore waters no deeper than 6 m (20 ft). It can be found on or buried in sand or mud, or in and near kelp beds. Reaching 91 cm (36 in) in length, the thornback guitarfish has a heart-shaped pectoral fin disc and a long, robust tail bearing two posteriorly positioned dorsal fins and a well-developed caudal fin. The most distinctive traits of this plain-colored ray are the three parallel rows of large, hooked thorns that start from the middle of the back and run onto the tail.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Ghost Shrimp
Excellent bait in sandy areas.
- Bloodworms
A good all-around bait.
- Sand Crabs
Effective when Thornbacks are near shore.
- Mussels
Crushed mussels can also attract them.
- Small Fish (e.g., Anchovies)
Use small, dead fish on a Carolina rig.
Artificial Lures
- Berkeley Gulp! SandwormSoft PlasticBuy
Scent attracts Thornbacks from a distance.
- Lucky Craft Flash Minnow 110JerkbaitBuy
Slow retrieve close to the bottom.
- Shimano Coltsniper JigJigBuy
Effective when drifting or fishing from shore.
- Krocodile SpoonSpoonBuy
Silver or gold spoons work well.
- FishLab Bio-Glide SwimbaitSwimbaitBuy
Slow, steady retrieve near the bottom.
Techniques
When fishing for Thornback guitarfish, use a slow retrieve and maintain bottom contact as they are bottom feeders. A Carolina rig is generally effective.
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Where to Find Thornback guitarfish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Thornback guitarfish?+
Popular baits for Thornback guitarfish include Ghost Shrimp, Bloodworms, Sand Crabs, Mussels, Small Fish (e.g., Anchovies). Tip: When fishing for Thornback guitarfish, use a slow retrieve and maintain bottom contact as they are bottom feeders. A Carolina rig is generally effective.
Where can I catch Thornback guitarfish?+
Thornback guitarfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include California, United States; New York, United States. WikiCatch lists 16 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Thornback guitarfish get?+
Thornback guitarfish (Platyrhinoidis triseriata) can reach up to 91.0000026 cm in length and 2.95 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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