SeaAjBest months
January–December
Where
- Sandy beaches
- Estuaries
Best time
- Daytime
- Night
Usual size
30–60 cm
General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.
⚠️ Deadly if eaten
Its flesh and organs hold tetrodotoxin: cooking does not destroy it. Never eat it or give it away; release or discard it with pliers, and keep children and pets away.
How to catch it
Methods
- Bottom fishing
Baits
- Shrimp
- Fish strips
The angler's tip
Smooth puffer of sandy and muddy inshore bottoms, taken by accident on shrimp or fish: its skin and organs can be toxic and it should not be eaten. Release it without touching the mouth.
Easily confused with
Legal minimum size
We have no verified rule for your country yet. Check your local fisheries authority before keeping any fish.
About this fish
Lagocephalus laevigatus, known as the smooth puffer, is a species of pufferfish in the family Tetraodontidae. It is native to the Western Atlantic, where it ranges from New England to Argentina, as well as the Eastern Atlantic, where it ranges from Mauritania to Namibia. Adults of the species are pelagic and found near continental margins, whereas juveniles are usually found closer to shore or offshore banks, with both occurring either alone or in small, loose groups. It occurs at a depth range of 10 to 180 m over sandy or muddy bottoms and is a very large pufferfish, reaching 100 cm in total length. The species feeds on fish and shrimp and can be dangerously toxic if ingested. It is known to be oviparous. It is sometimes confused with the related species Lagocephalus inermis which is native to the Indo-Pacific.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to catch Smooth puffer?
The best months are January–December. Best time of the day: Daytime, Night.
What bait or lure works for Smooth puffer?
Shrimp, Fish strips · Bottom fishing.
Related species
These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.