The Dark Fishing Spider is one of North America's largest spiders, with females reaching nearly 3 inches leg-span and bearing a distinctive brown-and-gray mottled pattern. Unlike its relatives, it is often found far from water, resting on tree bark and in buildings. It can run across the water surface and dive briefly to escape predators. Females carry their egg sac in their chelicerae until spiderlings emerge.
Best time to see a Dark Fishing Spider
The best time to see a Dark Fishing Spider is April–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 30,303 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Dark Fishing Spider? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Dark Fishing Spider sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Dark Fishing Spider?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.