Thread: Ink Fish

After fishing the pier for 40 years, it never ceases to amaze how I always seem to see/learn something new.

This time for the last few days I've seen several creatures in the shallows I've only seen once before. They're strange cilinderical type with large wings near the aft end and seem to be slow and graceful in the water. I've asked may people if they knew what they were and finally got the answer from Mr. Harley. INK FISH.

After a quick review on a Google search, it was confirmed. I actually snagged one and brought him on deck. However, I wish I hadn't. It rolled up into a large rubbery ball and began leaking a bright purple ink all over my shoes. Decided that was enough and he went back over the side. Ugly guy, but know I know. Thought some of the rest of you might like to know too.

LOL, funny encounter Todd. Glad to hear it was just your shoes ;-)
They are named "sea slug" or even "sea hare"

The Sea Slug Forum - Aplysia brasiliana

I saw one from the 'octi' a couple of weeks ago, they tend to be more active this time of year.

Thanks for the added info #r. Saw one several years ago while fishing the surf on Johnson Beach but not long enough to get a close look. Havn't seem 'em around the pier before until the other day when I got a good look at several, then hooked one to try and ID it.

Originally Posted by fshntime

Thanks for the added info #r. Saw one several years ago while fishing the surf on Johnson Beach but not long enough to get a close look. Havn't seem 'em around the pier before until the other day when I got a good look at several, then hooked one to try and ID it.

I had a similar experience about a month ago when I came across one in Little Lagoon. I hooked it out of curiosity to see what it was.