Spiny dogfish, Rock salmon, Flake
Spurdog is a small shark with a slender grey body, white underside, and distinctive sharp spines positioned in front of each dorsal fin. It has no anal fin and typically grows to around 80–100cm, although larger females can exceed 1 metre. Its firm, white flesh has a mild flavour and has traditionally been sold under names such as rock salmon or flake.
Spurdog are highly migratory sharks found throughout the northeast Atlantic, ranging from Norway to the Mediterranean and around the British Isles. They inhabit both coastal and offshore waters, moving over long distances in large shoals. Around the UK, they are found in the Celtic Sea, English Channel, Irish Sea, and North Sea, where they are landed by commercial fisheries.
Sustainability Rating
Status: Spurdog populations have recovered significantly following many years of fishing restrictions. After a prolonged fishing ban, commercial fisheries reopened in 2024 under strict quota management. Although stocks continue to increase, the species remains vulnerable because it is slow-growing, late to mature, and produces relatively few young.
Best Choice: Spurdog landed from well-managed fisheries operating under current quota controls, with effective stock monitoring and responsible management measures.
Avoid: Spurdog from fisheries that lack effective management or where catches are not carefully monitored.
Culinary Uses
Spurdog has firm, boneless white flesh that works well in a variety of dishes. Ideal for frying, grilling, or baking.
Often sold as "rock salmon" or "flake" in fish and chip shops.
Traditionally served with butter, capers, and lemon.
Its mild flavour makes it a versatile alternative to other white fish species.
Best Fishing Practices
Modern spurdog fisheries operate under strict catch limits that were introduced following the fishery's reopening. Large breeding females over 100cm are protected and must be returned to the sea, helping safeguard future generations. Continued scientific monitoring and responsible fisheries management are essential to sustain the recent recovery of this species.
Seasonality
Available throughout the year, with landings depending on migration patterns, fishing activity, and quota availability.
Supporting Local, Sustainable Seafood
Spurdog is an encouraging example of how effective fisheries management can help rebuild vulnerable fish populations. By choosing responsibly sourced spurdog from well-managed fisheries, consumers support the continued recovery of this species while encouraging sustainable fishing practices for the future.
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