Spurdog Tagathon info

The SSACN Spurdog Tagathon which happens around the middle of November is the SSTP’s oldest Event. The main aims of the weekend are to tag as many spurdog as possible from the shore and boat and to raise the public awareness of the urgent need for sharks, ray and skate protection in Scottish waters.

Collection and Drop Off points where advice, ‘welcome packs’, tags, recording cards, caunlars and tagging information will be issued and full training to any one who needs it will be provided.

For Loch Sunart :: The main centre will be the Salen Hotel with registration on

Friday and Saturday night between 08.30 & 09.30pm
Saturday and Sunday mornings at the Resipole campsite between 08.00 & 09.00am.

Accommodation varies around Loch Sunart. favourites amongst anglers are the chalets at the Salen Hotel , Salen House Bed & Breakfast and the campsite at Resipole. Other accommodation can be found here.

For Loch Etive :: The main centre will be the Lochnell Arms Hotel with registration on

Friday and Saturday nights between 7.30 & 8.30pm.
Saturday and Sunday mornings at the hotel between 08.00 & 09.00am.

Can you please hand your tagging data and fish record cards in to either the Lochnell Arms Hotel or the Taynuilt Hotel in Taynuilt, there will be a drop box at both of these places.

Reasonably priced accommodation is available nearby at both the Taynuilt hotel and Brander Lodge hotel . Both are angler friendly and both have parking space for trailers. Additional accommodation in and around the Oban area can be found here.

Insurance: We have been advised that for insurance purposes we must have the names and addresses of all taggers attending the event, therefore all participants, not just the boat owner/skipper must fill in the online entry form below.

Tagging Records: It is very important that we receive all tagging data back, please fill in details of all your tagged fish at the event and also record all other shark species including dogfish and those fish to small to tag. If you can’t make the above collection points please advise us through the ‘note’ section in the entry form below and we will see what alternative arrangements may be possible. Other details are in the welcome pack.

Registration :: You may register for the Spurdog Tagathon at any time by filling in the form at the end of this page.

Note 1. We do make a small charge of £5 per person for taking part in the programme to help cover the cost of the tags, canulas and other materials, however, for that money you will also receive Associate Membership of SSACN. To pay by cheque, please send one payable to The Secretary (SSACN) whose address can be found here or through Paypal using the following button

Note 2. Because of the nature of the event, SSACN cannot ensure the safety of all concerned, therefore all those who take part in the Sharkatag must accept that they are participating at their own risk. Do not fill in the form unless you agree and accept these conditions.

Resources ::

Skate code of best practice
Essential information for a private boat going skate fishing
Recommended common skate rig
For the smaller sharks here
Tagging size and use of plastic dart tag guidelines.
Loch Etive small boat launch guide

Launching at Loch Sunart is usually completed at either of two very popular slipways. Coming from Strontian, the first you will encounter is located across the road from Resipole campsite http://www.resipole.co.uk/ . This slipway involves a tight reverse turn and is best avoided two hours either side of low water on bigger tides as the water level can fall below the concrete ramp and lead to problems. If the slipway is clean and free from debris, then a two wheel drive car should be sufficient here. the slipway is rather open and offers little shelter. It is recommended for the more experienced boater. Three miles further West is the excellent Salen jetty http://www.salenjetty.co.uk/ . Oweners Mark & Jan Drury have made considerable improvements here in recent times with the installation of pontoons, walkway, car parking and plans for future refurbishments that will include toilets and shower facilities. Boats can be recovered safely at all states of tide at a very sheltered location.