The spotted skate, scientifically known as Leucoraja ocellata, is a fascinating species found in the saltwater and brackish waters of Quebec. Although it is not the primary target for sport fishing, it piques the interest of anglers curious about marine diversity. These skates are often observed in the coastal waters of the St. Lawrence estuary and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where they inhabit sandy and muddy seabeds. The spotted skate is more appreciated for its ecological role than for its fight, but it still offers some resistance when hooked.

The spotted skate is distinguished by its diamond-shaped flattened body and wide wings that resemble extended pectoral fins. Its coloration ranges from light brown to dark brown, with distinctive white spots that give it its name. These spots are often surrounded by a darker halo. The mouth is located on the underside of the body, equipped with flat teeth adapted for crushing shellfish and crustaceans. The pectoral fins are broad and rounded, while the tail is relatively short and slender, equipped with a few spines. Young spotted skates exhibit more contrasting patterns than adults. Males, especially during breeding season, can be distinguished by the presence of claspers, specialized extensions of their pelvic fins.

The spotted skate is primarily found in the coastal waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the St. Lawrence estuary. It prefers sandy and muddy bottoms, where it can effectively camouflage itself. Although its distribution is relatively limited to these areas, it is quite abundant where it is found. It is not found in freshwater, being strictly marine and brackish. Outside of Quebec, it is also present along the North American Atlantic coast, up to Nova Scotia.

Spotted skates favor shallow coastal waters, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters. They prefer sandy or muddy substrates, where they can easily hide from predators and feed. These skates are often encountered near bays and estuaries, where the water is calmer and rich in nutrients. The ideal temperatures for spotted skates range from 8 to 15 °C, which explains their presence in the colder northern waters.

The reproduction of spotted skates occurs in the spring. Females lay eggs encapsulated in horny capsules, often referred to as "mermaid's purses." These capsules are deposited on the seabed, where they develop for several months. The young skates emerge fully formed and begin to feed immediately. Growth is relatively slow, and the skates reach sexual maturity after about 3 to 4 years. The longevity of this species is estimated to be between 7 and 10 years. Spring → Spawning → Summer → Young growth → Fall → Foraging → Winter → Resting period.

Spotted skates are primarily solitary, although they may be observed in small groups when feeding. They are not particularly territorial and move according to food availability. Although relatively tolerant of underwater noise, they may become skittish in the face of sudden disturbances. Changes in light, such as those caused by passing clouds, can prompt them to move to deeper areas.

The diet of the spotted skate primarily consists of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Young skates mainly feed on small crustaceans and invertebrates, while adults prefer larger prey such as crabs and clams. In winter, when temperatures drop, they may reduce their feeding activity but remain opportunistic in capturing any available prey.

In spring, spotted skates move closer to the coast to breed, making this period ideal for observing them. In summer, they disperse a bit more but remain in coastal waters to enjoy the warmer temperatures. Fall marks a return to more active foraging behaviors before winter. In winter, they tend to move to deeper waters to avoid freezing temperatures. The best times to observe them are early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when feeding activity is at its peak.

For fishing for spotted skates, prefer natural baits rather than lures. However, if you use lures, opt for natural colors like brown or green that mimic crustaceans and small fish. In clear water, silver hues can attract attention. In murky water, more contrasting colors like yellow can be effective.

For the spotted skate, use a 6 to 7-foot rod with a moderate action to absorb movements. A medium-sized open spool reel will suffice, with a line of 10 to 15 lb. Opt for circle hooks that minimize injuries. A 20 lb fluorocarbon leader may be useful to withstand abrasion from the seabed.

Handle the spotted skate with care, avoiding the spines on its tail. Use gloves to grasp it by the sides of its body. For release, ensure it is well oxygenated by keeping it in the water until it swims away on its own. For a photo, support its body and avoid keeping it out of the water for too long.

Natural predators of the spotted skate include larger sharks, such as the blue shark, as well as some seabirds that may attack young skates. Seals can also pose a danger to adult skates.

The spotted skate is currently not considered endangered in Quebec, but it is subject to bycatch pressures. It is important to respect local regulations and practice catch and release to ensure the sustainability of populations. Raising awareness about the conservation of its habitat is also crucial.