Inshore Shark Fishing

Inshore Shark Fishing can be done from almost any beach a fish can be caught from. Usually, the better the fishing, the better the shark fishing. Bridges, piers and jetties are all places that give good success to productive waters. Heavy tackle and strong backs are called for because the shore-bound angler is not able to follow his quarry once hooked. Shark fishing in the surf is always played down for the obvious reason that chambers of commerce don't want to scare off the bathing public. But don't let anyone tell you, as they probably will, that fishing for sharks from the beach tends to draw sharks to the area. This is pure myth. The sharks are already there, all you're doing is catching them. (Of course, you should never chum or clean fish near a swimming beach as this could attract sharks.)

Landing large sharks from bridges and piers is a real problem. Before you begin to fish find a way off the structure so you can drag the shark ashore. Your only other choices would be to release the shark by cutting your line or by fishing with a rope for line, which is not too sporting. Beware of any sharks you have landed until they are long dead. Don't wade into any surf known to be shark infested.

Shark Fishing in the Bays

The problem is that unless you use heavy wire leader and 30-pound line, you'll lose your entire terminal rig to the sharks. I mean you can catch all the weakfish you want on ten-pound line, but then there's no way to stop the sharks.

Well, the real problem is that the old-timers who fish the bays in the East, South and West still consider sharks trash. The sharks they are trying so hard to avoid will actually fight harder on the hook and taste better at the table than the porgies, grunts and tautogs they're after.

In Northern bays it will be unusual to find very large sharks. The abundant dogfish, both smooth and spiny, do not grow much over three feet or 20 pounds. However on light tackle they will give you a tussle and they are excellent eating.

Tropic bay waters, both East and West hold a variety of sharks of varying sizes, and fishing for them can be full of surprises. Best way to attract them is by chumming. Stout boat rods and strong wire on the terminal end are important. Cut squid, mullet or other baitfish on a forged hook make good baits when live fish are not available.

If fishing in shallow water, be careful! Sharks have been known to attack and sink small skiffs.

It is not recommended that you take a large live shark aboard your boat. Shoot him, drag him or release him.