Longspined Bullhead

Taurulus bubalis

The longspined bullhead (Taurulus bubalis) is a small marine sculpin of cold North Atlantic coasts, best known for its very long first dorsal spine and bottom-dwelling habits. It is not a common target species, but it will take small natural baits near rocky shorelines and kelp beds.

Saltwater

Longspined Bullhead reference image — Buffon, Georges Louis Leclerc; Cuvier, Georges; Valenciennes, public-domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Very long, erect first dorsal spine ahead of the second dorsal fin
Broad, flattened head with large fan-like pectoral fins
Mottled brown-olive body with a tapering body and bottom-camouflaged look

Habitat

Shallow coastal rocky reefs, kelp forests, tide pools, and eelgrass edges over sand or gravel; usually on or near the bottom in cold-temperate North Atlantic waters.

Bait notes

Use small strips of worm, shrimp, crab, or fish; tiny soft plastics and baited sabiki-style rigs can also work. Small baits presented close to bottom are most effective.

Behavior

A benthic ambush predator that sits motionless on the seabed and feeds on small crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and tiny fish. It is typically more active at dusk, in moving water, and around structure.

Caution

Handle carefully: the long dorsal spine and other spines can prick. Check local regulations before retaining fish, as rules may vary by region.

Fishing notes

Fish light tackle with a small hook and short leader, casting tight to rocks, weed edges, and gullies. Let the bait sit on bottom and use a slow lift-drop retrieve; this is usually a bycatch species rather than a primary target.