Trachinus draco
Greater Weever
Greater weever is an important danger species for shore anglers. It has venomous spines and can bury in sand.
Danger and handling
Venomous spines. For beginners, the best approach is not to touch it and keep distance.
Not a good beginner target. If caught accidentally, release as safely as possible.
About this fish
This fish matters less as a trophy and more as safety knowledge: on sand, always watch where you step.
Where to find it
Sandy bottom, surf zones, shallow water, and places where it can be stepped on accidentally.
How to identify it
Elongated sandy-coloured fish, high-set eyes, and a dark first dorsal fin.
How to catch it
Not a target species. It may be caught accidentally on bottom rigs from sandy areas.
Baits and lures
- do not target
- long pliers
- water shoes on beaches
Equipment
- do not target intentionally
- long pliers or option to cut the leader
- closed shoes/water shoes on sand
- medical plan in case of sting
- 1.If caught, do not hand-grab it even if it is small.
- 2.Use a tool or cut the leader if that is safer.
- 3.If stung, seek medical help; pain can be severe.
Where it lives in this guide
Forecast for Limassol Coast
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What difficulty means
It is not fish size or danger. It means how hard it is to consistently find, trigger, and catch the species in real Cyprus conditions.
Beginner-friendly: simple tackle, clear bites, and less demand for perfect presentation.
Gear. Float rod, feeder, or simple bottom rig; small set of hooks, weights, and bait.
Weather. Best with wind under 18 km/h, moderate UV, and low rain chance.
Requires reading the spot: depth, wind, cover, fish activity, and retrieve speed.
Gear. Bring 2-3 methods, spare leaders, different weights/lures, and unhooking tools.
Weather. Wind at 18-28 km/h affects casting; watch gusts, pressure, and swell.
Hard to catch consistently: the species may be rare, local, seasonal, depth-sensitive, weather-sensitive, or active only in short windows.
Gear. Tackle depends on method and spot. Having options, patience, and spot-reading matters more than one 'correct' rig.
Weather. Watch activity windows: wind, pressure, clarity, water level, current, and light can matter more than the lure.