Bigeye Sixgill Shark

About the Bigeye Sixgill Shark

This deepwater enigma is easily identified by its slender, fusiform body, sporting a distinct brownish-gray back contrasting sharply with a lighter belly. Its most striking feature, and namesake, are its unusually large, fluorescent green eyes that gleam vividly when alive. Anglers should also note its six gill slits, a rare trait among sharks, and its relatively small, slim build with a narrow head.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Little is definitively known about the Bigeye Sixgill Shark's specific preferred habitats. Like other members of the cow shark family, it is generally believed to inhabit deep waters, often near the seafloor.

Lure suggestion

Given its likely deepwater existence, targeting the Bigeye Sixgill Shark would involve heavy-duty bottom fishing gear. Large, oily baits such as whole squid, mackerel, or bonito, presented on a strong circle hook with a heavy wire leader, would be the most effective approach to entice this rarely encountered species.