Shark Fishing - What You Should Know

Outdoors Articles » Fishing » Shark Fishing - What You Should Know

Shark Fishing - What You Should Know

Sharks rule the open sea, they are very rarely the prey when it comes to other fish. This is why fishing for sharks can be extremely challenging and fun. So if you think you are up to the challenge to catch some sharks there are some things that you should know if you have not fished for sharks before.

If it is your main goal to actually catch a shark, the best time to do it is in May if you are in Florida. The temperature is not too hot and it will attract more of the predators you seek. If you decide to fish for sharks in the middle of the summer, you should be aware of water temperatures and try to find the coolest spot possible.

Preparation is the key to shark fishing, make a checklist before you go and make sure you have everything that you will need. You will need a strong fishing rod and reel that can hold at least 50 pound test. You will also want to have a safety harness so you do not get pulled in the water and become bait yourself.

There are many types of bait that you can use, you could use live bait, which is preferred, cutting the tail off will increase the scent of the bait also. Chum will also greatly increase you chances of hooking up with a shark, bloody the waters and they will come.

It is important to know what type of shark you are wanting to fish. Different sharks swim at different levels and temperatures. In order to set a shark trap, you will have to tie your farthest bait off the bow rail with a flat line clip. Make sure that the line is out of the way and stay in the highest rocket holder on the particular side of the boat from which you are fishing.

As soon as you have waited and finally caught your first shark, you better be prepared. Sharks will have different temperaments and act according to their agitation. Some sharks have been known to slightly drag the bait before they swallow, while other sharks will run at the boat, run in the opposing direction from the boat, or come right up to the boat.

Landing a shark requires help, and your helper should have experience. One option would be to gaff the shark, and be careful when shark is on the boat as they will stay alive for a good amount of time when out of the water. If the shark is too large and you want to keep it you will have to drag it in the water back to base with a wire or rope.

You should only keep a shark if you plan on eating it. Shark finning has depleted many and they are in danger of becoming extinct. Please help keep these predators alive by releasing the shark if you are not planning to eat it or hang it on your wall.

About the Author

Jerry Collinsburg has been fishing in florida for further than 15 years. For further information on how to catch sharks you can read his entry on his website. Shark Fishing Florida

Rating: Not yet rated