Species guide
How to catch Blackbelly lanternshark
Etmopterus lucifer
The Blackbelly lanternshark is a small, elongated shark known for its glowing belly that helps attract prey and may keep groups together in deep waters. It feeds on squid, small fishes, and shrimps, often hunting larger prey than itself. This species is found in deep ocean environments and is usually caught in large schools.
Where they live
Found in deep saltwater environments on continental and island shelves and upper slopes across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, usually between 150 and 1357 meters deep.
Typical size
Up to about 55 cm
What they eat
- squid
- small bony fishes
- shrimps
Best baits
- cut squid
- small fish pieces
- shrimp
Best lures
- small squid imitations
- jigs
- soft plastic lures resembling shrimp
How to fish for them
- deep drop fishing
- bottom longlining
- using baited deepwater traps
Track every Blackbelly lanternshark you catch.
Bobbr turns each catch into a species collection, quests, and streaks. We're building it now — join the iOS waitlist for $19 lifetime founding access.
Claim founding access