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How to Rig for Starry Smooth-hound

Mustelus asterias

Smoothhounds are small, powerful sharks that arrive on UK and Irish shores in late spring and feed almost entirely on crabs over sand, mud, and mixed ground. Peeler crab on a running rig is the go-to method, and they make long, fast runs when hooked. Most UK anglers release them, and the starry smooth-hound shown here is the species most commonly caught, though the similar common smooth-hound also occurs.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Peeler crab, hardback crab, or squid on bottom, smoothhounds have crushing plates, not sharp teeth
Where
surf, boat, pier
Typical size
24–48 in
Season
Peak season: summer
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnersurf · pier · boat

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks2/0 - 4/0 hook on a strong mono trace
  • WeightRunning or pulley rig with a 5 - 6oz grip lead
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitPeeler crab, hardback crab, or squid on bottom, smoothhounds have crushing plates, not sharp teeth
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Realistic Pyramid Sinker Surf Rig fishing rig setup
Pyramid Sinker Surf Rig
A heavier pyramid sinker digs into sand and holds bottom in real surf and shorebreak, where lighter rigs wash around.
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Main linePulley swivel slidesalong the rig bodyRig body 60-80 lbSnood swivelHook snoodBait clipped downGrip lead
Pulley Rig
The main line is tied to a swivel that slides along a short, heavy rig body with the lead at one end and the hook snood at the other.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗GOV.UK / local fisheries authorities ↗Inland Fisheries Ireland ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Starry Smooth-hound?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for Starry Smooth-hound. The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for Starry Smooth-hound?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Starry Smooth-hound.

When is the best time to catch Starry Smooth-hound?

Peak season: summer. Typical size runs 24–48 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Starry Smooth-hound?

Starry Smooth-hound is caught while surf, boat, pier fishing. Smoothhounds are small, powerful sharks that arrive on UK and Irish shores in late spring and feed almost entirely on crabs over sand, mud, and mixed ground. Peeler crab on a running rig is the go-to method, and they make long, fast runs when hooked. Most UK anglers release them, and the starry smooth-hound shown here is the species most commonly caught, though the similar common smooth-hound also occurs.