Lagocephalus sceleratus
Silver-cheeked Toadfish
Silver-cheeked toadfish is a dangerous invasive pufferfish. Do not eat it: tissues may contain a powerful toxin.
Danger and handling
Toxic flesh and strong teeth. Do not eat, do not clean in the kitchen, and do not handle without tools.
Do not consume. Check DFMR guidance for invasive species and disposal.
About this fish
This is a species to learn before the first bite. Its main lesson is that not every caught fish is safe to eat.
Where to find it
Found near shore, on sand, rocks, and areas with small fish or scraps.
How to identify it
Puffy body, silver sides, powerful beak-like teeth, and ability to inflate.
How to catch it
Not a target species. If caught, do not eat it and do not feed it to animals.
Baits and lures
- do not target
- pliers
- safe disposal according to rules
Equipment
- do not target and do not eat
- pliers and strong leader if caught accidentally
- keep fingers away from teeth
- do not place with edible fish
- 1.Do not put it in a keepnet with edible fish.
- 2.Keep fingers away from the teeth: they can cut tackle easily.
- 3.If unsure about local disposal rules, ask DFMR/local anglers.
Where it lives in this guide
Forecast for Paphos 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.