Sharks
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Sharks, apex predators of the ocean, can be found in various bodies of water along the South/Gulf region of the United States. These powerful and fascinating creatures inhabit both inshore and offshore environments, as well as estuaries and bays.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Sharks occupy diverse habitats depending on the species, but they are often found in areas with abundant food sources and favorable water conditions. They can be encountered in nearshore areas, along sandy or rocky bottoms, around reefs and offshore structures, and in deeper waters farther offshore. Sharks are highly migratory and can cover vast distances in search of prey.
Look for sharks near areas of high biological productivity, such as upwellings, current edges, and convergence zones where different water masses meet. They are attracted to areas with abundant baitfish, including schools of mullet, herring, or menhaden. Sharks are known to frequent areas with an ample supply of food, including fish, squid, and other marine organisms.​
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring months, sharks become more active as water temperatures rise. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from inshore areas to offshore waters. Inshore, look for sharks around baitfish schools, near river mouths, and along beaches. Offshore, target areas with upwellings, rips, and submerged structures. Fishing with fresh or cut bait, such as mackerel, bonito, or squid, can attract sharks.
SUMMER
In the summer, sharks are often encountered in warmer waters, both nearshore and offshore. Inshore, look for them around sandbars, near jetties, and along the surf line. Offshore, target areas with offshore reefs, wrecks, and canyons. Drift fishing or anchoring with fresh or cut bait, such as bluefish, bonito, or barracuda, can yield success when targeting sharks. Pay attention to local regulations regarding the use of chum or live bait.
FALL
As fall arrives, sharks continue their presence in the South/Gulf region. Inshore, they can be found in the same areas as in the spring, taking advantage of the presence of migrating baitfish. Offshore, target areas with concentrations of baitfish and areas with good bottom structure. Fishing with fresh or cut bait, such as mullet, bonito, or ladyfish, can attract sharks. Deploying a shark rig with a wire leader and a large circle hook is recommended to increase hook-up success while reducing the risk of the shark biting through the line.
WINTER
During the winter months, sharks may move to deeper offshore waters or migrate to warmer areas. However, in the South/Gulf region, some species like bull sharks and blacktip sharks can still be encountered. Focus on inshore areas, such as estuaries and nearshore reefs, where water temperatures remain relatively warmer. Fishing with fresh or cut bait, such as jack crevalle, ladyfish, or mullet, can entice strikes from winter sharks.
Bait
Whole fish: Whole fish such as bonito, mackerel, or bluefish are often used as shark bait because they release a strong scent trail in the water that can attract sharks from a distance.
Cut bait: Cut bait, such as squid, mackerel, or sardines, can also be used to catch sharks. These baits release a strong scent trail in the water that can attract sharks from a distance.
Live bait: Live bait, such as mullet, pinfish, or ladyfish, can be very effective for catching sharks, especially when fished near the bottom or in areas with a lot of structure.
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!