LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

• Sharks, fascinating and powerful creatures, can be found in the coastal waters of the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking an adrenaline-filled fishing experience often target sharks in the ocean waters off the shores of Oregon and Washington. Here are some notable locations for shark fishing in the region:

• Oregon: The coastal areas of Oregon, including popular locations such as Seaside, Newport, and Coos Bay, provide opportunities for shark fishing. Additionally, the offshore waters beyond the surf zone attract anglers in search of various shark species.

• Washington: Washington's coastal waters, particularly around the Olympic Peninsula and the mouth of the Columbia River, offer excellent opportunities for shark fishing. Locations such as Westport, Ocean Shores, and Ilwaco are known for their shark populations.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Sharks are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of marine habitats. They often patrol nearshore areas, estuaries, and offshore environments in search of food. Coastal features such as sandbars, drop-offs, and rocky structures can attract sharks, as they provide opportunities for hunting and ambush.

  
  

PATTERNS

SPRING

• During spring, as the water temperature begins to rise, sharks become more active. They follow their prey closer to shore, searching for food sources such as fish and squid. Fishing with fresh or frozen bait, such as mackerel, herring, or salmon, can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

• In the summer months, sharks are more abundant in nearshore waters. They can be found patrolling the surf zone and offshore areas. Fishing with larger baits, such as whole fish or chunks of baitfish, can attract larger shark species. Using chumming techniques to create a scent trail can also increase your chances of attracting sharks.

FALL

• Fall is an excellent time to target sharks as they continue to feed before the colder months. They may be found in areas with strong currents, near river mouths, or around baitfish schools. Fishing with a combination of fresh and oily baits, such as mackerel or squid, can be productive during this season.

WINTER

• In winter, shark activity slows down as water temperatures drop. However, some shark species, such as dogfish sharks, remain active during this time. They can be found in deeper offshore waters and around underwater structures. Fishing with cut bait or squid can entice sharks to bite.

Bait

• When targeting sharks, anglers use a variety of bait options. Whole fish, fish fillets, heads, or chunks can be effective, depending on the size and species of sharks you're targeting. Common baitfish used for shark fishing include mackerel, herring, salmon, and squid. It's essential to use strong and sturdy tackle and secure the bait properly to withstand the power of a shark's bite.

  
  

Techniques

Bait Fishing

• How: Use a variety of natural baits to attract sharks, such as chunks of fish, whole fish, or squid. Anchor your boat in areas with known shark populations, such as offshore structures, channels, or near bait schools. Deploy your baited hooks at various depths using a fish finder rig or a chum slick to attract sharks to your location.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty spinning or conventional rods. Reels: Large and powerful spinning or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: Minimum 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Circle hooks in sizes ranging from 8/0 to 12/0. Leaders: Steel or wire leaders with a breaking strength suitable for the targeted shark species.

Trolling

• How: Trolling for sharks involves pulling large, flashy lures or rigged baits behind a moving boat to attract their attention. Use heavy-duty trolling rods and reels capable of handling the drag pressure. Troll at a moderate speed in areas known for shark activity, such as offshore reefs or along drop-offs.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods with a high line rating. Reels: Powerful trolling reels with a high line capacity. Line: Minimum 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Large trolling lures, such as swimming plugs, skirted baits, or imitation fish.

Chumming

• How: Chumming involves creating a scent trail to attract sharks to your fishing location. Use a chum bag or bucket filled with a mixture of fish parts, blood, and oils to release a strong scent into the water. Anchor your boat in an area with known shark activity and suspend your baits in the chum slick to entice sharks to feed.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty spinning or conventional rods. Reels: Large and powerful spinning or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: Minimum 30-50lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Circle hooks in sizes ranging from 8/0 to 12/0. Leaders: Steel or wire leaders with a breaking strength suitable for the targeted shark species.

Beach Fishing

• How: Beach fishing for sharks can be a thrilling experience. Choose a beach known for shark activity and fish during dusk or dawn when sharks are more active. Use a fish finder rig or a surfcasting rig with large bait, such as a whole fish or chunks of fish, and cast it into deeper waters beyond the breakers. Be prepared for powerful runs and ensure you have the appropriate gear to handle larger sharks.

• Gear: Rods: Heavy surfcasting rods with a high line rating. Reels: Powerful spinning or conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: Minimum 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Circle hooks in sizes ranging from 8/0 to 12/0. Leaders: Steel or wire leaders with a breaking strength suitable for the targeted shark species.

Always exercise caution and prioritize safety when targeting sharks. It's important to handle them with care and release them safely after catching, unless you have proper licensing and intend to keep the shark within legal limits. Adhere to local fishing regulations and size limits to ensure the sustainability of shark populations. Enjoy your thrilling shark fishing adventures