Weever Fish| Fish Species Guide | Angling Direct

Weever Fish

Weever Fish

aka Echiichthys vipera

As one of the 2 species of weever, the lesser weever fish is the smaller species but has a larger, upturned mouth. Found all around the UK, Ireland and part of Europe, over sandy and muddy seabeds, the lesser weever fish is most common in the summer months when it comes closest to the shore. It can be identified by its tapered body and silver colour with a yellowish-brown mottled pattern. Its eyes are found at the top of the head and the black dorsal fin and gill covers have venomous spikes.

FactThe spelling 'weever' is derived from the Latin word for viper and the weever fish are one of the few poisonous fish in UK waters. They spend most of their lives buried in the sand, but when disturbed, they eject their black dorsal fin in defence, injecting a painful venum into unsuspecting victims.

Stats

Habitat

Habitat

Sea bottoms over sand or mud, usually buried partically to hide.

Bait

Bait

Daylights or feather lures, ragworm, prawn & mackerel strip.

Fishing Tackle

Fishing Tackle

Native or Invasive

Native or Invasive

Native

Where

Where

Eastern Atlantic from the North Sea around the UK to Morocco and Madeira, and in the Mediterranean Sea.

Catch Experience Catch Experience

Weever (Echiichthys Vipera), is most often caught as bycatch with fairly standard gear. Commonly found in sandy, muddy and light shingle seabed, they bury themselves in the sand near the shore, making them more prompt to be caught. Not usually the first choice of catch for anglers as it is a rare venomous fish, the weever is almost always caught as bycatch as it will bite onto any bait or lure. However, to intentionally catch a weever competitive fishing, practically any setup will do. As small fish, they do not put up much of a fight; a light rob will do. As much as not having strength, they will rattle and move fast once they take the bait and still fight. Due to its stinging nature, using a fishing net will be safer as the most crucial part is once the weever is caught. Once caught, it is essential not to get stung by the weever. To release it back into the water, it is crucial to either use a plier or have a set of heavy-duty gloves to remove the hook straight from its mouth and avoid its venom. If stung, going to the hospital should be the first call. However, the venom is neutralised by heat, finding a source of heat and applying it onto the stung area.

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