Skate

Multiple skate species are found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans — Big Skate and California Skate are the most common Pacific species; Thorny Skate and Winter Skate are common Atlantic species. Found on sandy and muddy bottom. A cartilaginous fish related to rays and sharks — flat, diamond-shaped body that buries in sand waiting for prey.

40°F–60°F. Cold-water bottom fish found on soft-bottom substrate from shallow inshore areas to very deep offshore water. Found throughout the year in cold to cool Pacific and Atlantic coastal waters.

Best Lures: Rarely targeted with lures. Best Baits: Fresh clam and fresh squid produce incidental catches on bottom rigs near sandy bottom. Fresh herring and cut fish work well. Primarily caught as incidental bycatch when fishing for flounder and other bottom fish over sandy substrate.

Varies greatly by species — Big Skate can reach 8 feet across and 200 lbs. Skate wings are edible and occasionally harvested — sold as "skate wings" in upscale restaurants. The wing meat has a scallop-like texture when prepared correctly.