The spiny skate is a little-known cartilaginous fish among sport fishermen in Quebec, often due to its distribution in deep, cold waters. Its presence is mainly noted in the salty and brackish waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Although it is not a common catch for sport fishermen, it piques interest for its unique appearance and fascinating biology. Due to its rarity in recreational catches, it is especially of interest to ichthyologists and marine biodiversity enthusiasts. The spiny skate does not put up a fierce fight, but catching it can be a technical challenge due to the depth of the waters where it resides.

The spiny skate has a characteristic flattened body typical of rays, with pectoral fins that extend widely forming a diamond-shaped disc. Its color varies from brown to gray, often speckled with darker spots that allow it to camouflage against the seafloor. Its mouth is located on the underside of the body, equipped with small teeth adapted for capturing benthic prey. The tail is long and thin, distinguished by the presence of sharp spines, hence its name. Young skates have more contrasting patterns than adults, which helps them blend in. Males have claspers, visible reproductive organs near the base of the tail, which distinguish them from females.

In Quebec, the spiny skate is mainly found in the cold waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It prefers deep, sedimentary areas, making it rare in easily accessible coastal waters. It is also found in some parts of the St. Lawrence estuary, though in lesser abundance. This species is not common in the inland waters of Quebec, due to its preference for marine and brackish environments. The spiny skate is more widely distributed in the North Atlantic, ranging from the coasts of Canada to European waters.

The spiny skate typically inhabits the seabed at depths ranging from 50 to 1000 meters, preferring sandy or muddy bottoms where it can blend into the substrate. It is particularly adapted to cold waters, with a preference for temperatures around 3 to 10 °C. It is often found near commercial fishing areas where it may be accidentally caught. In search of benthic prey, it often positions itself near underwater structures such as reefs or wrecks, which harbor an abundance of food.

The reproduction of the spiny skate is oviparous, with females laying eggs encapsulated in tough capsules often referred to as "mermaid's purses." These capsules are deposited on the seabed where they hatch after several months. Young skates emerge fully formed and develop slowly, reaching sexual maturity between 7 and 10 years. The longevity of this species can reach up to 20 years, which is relatively long for a skate.

Spring: Spawning and egg laying.

Summer: Growth of juveniles.

Autumn: Development and increased feeding.

Winter: Resting period and low activity.

The spiny skate is generally solitary, although it may be observed in small groups during the spawning season. It is not particularly territorial and tends to be rather discreet, often burying itself in the substrate to hide from predators. It is sensitive to changes in light and prefers dark or dimly lit environments. Noise and sudden disturbances can cause it to flee, but it is relatively tolerant of variations in pressure and temperature as long as they remain within its natural preferences.

The diet of the spiny skate mainly consists of small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks that it uncovers on the seabed. Young skates primarily feed on small invertebrates and larvae, while adults hunt larger prey, including benthic fish. The diet varies little throughout the seasons, although summer and autumn are periods of more intense feeding to accumulate reserves in anticipation of winter.

Fishing for the spiny skate is not common, but it could theoretically be attempted year-round, especially in summer and autumn when the skates are more active. The best times to observe or accidentally catch them are generally early in the morning or late in the evening when light is low. Weather conditions have little influence on their activity, although they are more easily spotted in calm, clear waters after a stable weather period.

For the spiny skate, which is not specifically targeted by lures, using natural baits like pieces of fish or crustaceans is preferable. However, if you want to try lures, opt for natural colors like brown or green in clear waters. If the water is murky, brightly colored lures may be necessary to attract attention.

For deep sea fishing, a sturdy rod of 2.4 to 3 meters with heavy power is recommended. A spinning reel for its ability to handle long lengths of line is ideal. Use a braided line of 30 to 50 lb to resist abrasion against the seabed. Hooks should be size 2/0 to 4/0, and a 60 lb fluorocarbon leader is advised to avoid cuts from the tail spines.

If you catch a spiny skate, handle it carefully to avoid being pricked by the spines of its tail. Use gloves and support it by the body, avoiding the tail. For release, ensure it is well-oxygenated before gently releasing it. A quick photo can be taken, but avoid keeping it out of the water for too long.

Natural predators of the spiny skate include some large fish like the Greenland shark and opportunistic seabirds that may capture young skates near the surface. Humans also pose a threat through accidental capture in commercial fisheries.

In Quebec, the spiny skate is not specifically protected, but its capture is rare in sport fishing. Management focuses on bycatch in commercial fishing. Release is encouraged if it is accidentally captured, to contribute to the preservation of this uncommon species.