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Flying Gurnard, Dactylopterus volitans

Introduction: Another oddity that showed up in 2003, late in the year off the south west coast, this is rarely found north of the Bay of Biscay. Curiously another was captured off Cornwall in 2004.  This gurnard possesses a spectacular colouration when alive of vivid reds and blues, and bright spots on those massive pectoral fins that reach almost all the way down to the tail. It is a small fish that will rarely reach above 1.5 kilos in weight.

Boat tactics: This is another small fish, that will tackle any bait with plain ragworm offering you the best bet - you must reduce the hook size down to perhaps 1/0 in a pennel rig or smaller. Check the rig for Grey Gurnard.

Shore tactics: If you catch one, remember to buy a lottery ticket while you are at it!