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, in addition there will also be registrations on
• Saturday and Sunday mornings at the Resipole campsite between 08.00 & 09.00am.

Further information on the day from Willie on 07810 487200 or Stuart on 07818 002734 (subject to signal !) It is very important that we receive all tagging data back … please hand these in on Saturday evening at the Salen Hotel or at the Resipole Campsite on the Sunday between 3.30 & 5.00pm – if you are leaving early, please leave your cards in a box that will be located just outside the office at the campsite.

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

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

Further information will be available from Jamie on 07968 744336 during the days (again subject to signal). 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. If you are participating in the event and 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.

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: You will be asked to 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. The details are in the welcome pack

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

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. Tagging data will be closely guarded and only available in its ‘raw and total’ format to a limited number of ‘approved’ scientists / analysts working with the SSTP. Individual anglers will naturally be able to receive their own data on request.

Note 3. 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.