How To Find A Wolf Eel

In my opinion, the wolf eel is one of the most wonderful creatures in our waters. They are so ugly that they’re cute and they resemble the grumpy old men from The Muppets. There are many misconceptions about them, making a lot of divers fear them for no reason. I hope this article will educate you a bit more about these creatures and help you enjoy them a bit more.

What are they?

A common misconception is that wolf eels (Anarrhichthys ocellatus) are eels when in fact they are actually a species of fish! Native to the North Pacific, they live in rocky burrows and are often seen peeking out of holes in the rocks. They are curious creatures but unlike moray eels, they are not aggressive.

Do they mate for life?

Wolf Eels often do, and they make cute couples. If you find one peeking out of a hole you are very likely to find another one in there. You can tell the difference between a male and a female by their colours. The females are brown in colour and the males are grey.

So, how to find them?

Look for rocky areas with boulders that allow small caves to form. If you see lots of crabs and sea urchins near a rocky area you are likely to find one of their burrows. Wolf eels are messy eaters, and you can find a trail of shells and urchin body parts along the sand. When you see a debris field of crab and sea urchin remains start looking above this field for small burrows. Most likely, you will see one of them peeking out. Approach slowly and do not point your light directly at them.

Wolf eels are naturally inquisitive and they will come out if they think a free meal is available (please don’t feed them). If you are patient you sometimes get lucky and they will swim around you. Just stay calm they are not dangerous, but that does not mean you can pet them like your cat or dog. Sadly because of its friendly nature, people think it is ok to touch them and it also makes a good target for spearfishermen.  

In closing:

Enjoy this amazing creature with your eyes, or camera. Don’t feed them as they are easily tamed. Give them space and don’t crowd them too much when diving in a group. When you find them in non-marine protected areas keep it among yourself as their meat is sought after in certain circles.