Spiny Dogfish Washing Up On Area Beaches

Beachgoers have spotted the fish in Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Island Beach State Park, and northern Long Beach Island. Department of Environmental Protection spokeswoman Caryn Shinsk says it is likely due to commercial fishing activities.

We believe that what may be happening is a large amount of spiny dogfish are being caught ... those that exceed a quota limit, for example, for commercial fishing, are likely being released, dead or alive, back into the water once those fishing vessels have reached their trip limit."

Spiny dogfish do contain a mild poison in their spines, so if you do see one on the beach, be cautious.