Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

The Atlantic Angel Shark ranges from gray to brown in color with a white underside.

The head and portions of the fins have a reddish hue.

There is a red spot located on both the throat and abdomen.

Illustration by SEFSC Pascagoula Laboratory; Collection of Brandi Noble, NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC

Season	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Atlantic angel sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Size Limit	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Atlantic angel sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Daily Limit / Person	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Atlantic angel sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Delaware Range	Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Rare
General Habitat and Food Preferences	The Atlantic Angel Shark is generally found buried in sand or mud of the ocean floor at depths ranging from 100 to 800 feet. Ambush predators, they feed primarily on bottom dwelling crabs, shrimps, squids, and fishes.
Did You Know?	The Atlantic Angel Shark is also known as the "Sand Devil".
Common Lures and Baits	It is unlawful to release an Atlantic Angel Shark in a manner that will not ensure the shark's maximum probability of survival (e.g., no gaffs, no clubbing, careful hook removal, etc.). It is unlawful for any hook and line fisherman to remove an Atlantic Angel Shark from the water.
Typical Sizes Caught	In general, Atlantic Angel Sharks range from 3 to 4 feet in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Atlantic Angel Sharks are a protected species and not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Atlantic Angel Sharks are a protected species and are not currently eligible for any Delaware record.

Delaware's Government