Species guide

How to catch Tawny nurse shark

Nebrius ferrugineus

Stylized 2D illustration of Tawny nurse shark
saltwatergame fishGinglymostomatidae

The Tawny nurse shark is a large, elongated shark known for its sleepy appearance and gregarious resting habits. It forms groups in reef caves and uses powerful suction to catch prey. Mainly active at night, it rests during the day in sheltered reef areas.

Where they live

Found in saltwater regions of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, it inhabits shallow to moderately deep reefs up to 70 meters. Prefers sheltered reef crevices and caves but can also be found in more exposed reef depressions.

Typical size

Up to about 320 cm

What they eat

  • reef fish
  • small invertebrates
  • mollusks
  • crustaceans

Best baits

  • fresh fish chunks
  • squid
  • shrimp

Best lures

  • large soft plastic baits
  • jigs

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • using bait near reef structures

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How to catch Tawny nurse shark | Bobbr