Gasterosteus aculeatus
( Threespine, right )
Apeltes quadracus
( Fourspine, below )
Size:
to 4" (threespine)
to 2" (fourspine)
Habitat:
Weedy shore waters, occasionally at sea or even in freshwater.
Notes:
Sticklebacks are related to Pipefish and Seahorses. Three- and four-spined varieties are common in our area. A Ninespine variety is also possible.
Here are some pointers for hunting the most common food fishes in our waters. Always make sure a fish that you are targeting is of legal size and in-season - the same rules that apply to hook-and-line fishing apply to spearfishing. Unless you are sure, don't shoot it. See Catch Restrictions & Regulations for catch limits. See also Marine Biology for more detail on all of these and many others.
More: Spearfishing - Your Quarry ...
