Shark fishing off the coast of Florida is a fun challenge for anglers of all skill levels, but you need to know a lot before you cast your line. In the Atlantic and Gulf Coast waters around the state, there are many different kinds of sharks. Some are safe to fish for, while others are protected. Anglers need to know what gear they need to catch these ocean predators, what techniques to use, and, most importantly, what the rules are for shark fishing in Florida.

Start by getting a fishing license from the state of Florida, and then get ready for some fun trips on the water.

What to Know

Even though there is a lot to know about shark fishing in Florida, you shouldn’t let that stop you from trying to catch some of the most impressive species that live in the waters around the state. In Florida, you can catch many different kinds of sharks, such as the Atlantic Sharpnose, Blacktip, Bonnethead, Bull, Nurse, Thresher, Spinner, and Oceanic whitetip.

Before you go fishing for sharks, you should decide if you are ready to do it on your own, if you have the right gear, and if you have read up on Florida’s shark laws. If you want to go fishing on your own, you’ll need to know how to handle and release these fish, as well as buy tools for doing so. If you’re new to shark fishing or trying it for the first time in Florida, you’ll want to hire a guide who can take away the guesswork and help you have the best time on the water possible.

Ways to Fish for Sharks

Most people go on shark fishing charters when they want to catch sharks. The easiest way to do it is to go on an offshore charter, which is where most shark fishing trips take place. Charter captains will know the rules, show you how to fish, and have all the gear you need to catch the fish of a lifetime, like the right rods and reels for shark fishing. Another benefit of fishing from a charter boat is that it’s easy to move to a new spot if the fish aren’t biting where you are.

Shark fishing can also be done from the shore. Anglers often fish for sharks from the beach, away from where people swim. If you choose this choice, you will need to take Florida’s Shark-Smart Fishing course and get a certificate.

Shark Fishing Equipment

When it comes to this kind of fishing, shark fishing rods and shark fishing reels are two of the most important pieces of gear. The line, terminal tackle, and bait are the next pieces of shark fishing gear to think about. If you’ve never fished for sharks before, you should talk to the experts at bait and tackle shops in your area to find out what gear will work best where you’re fishing. They will have the best local knowledge and insider information to help you choose the right gear.

Shark Fishing Regulations

Florida has strict rules about how to fish for sharks. Some sharks can be caught, like the Blacktip, Bonnethead, Bull, Porbeagle, and Thresher. Other sharks, like the Atlantic angel, Bigeye thresher, and Lemon shark, can’t be caught. If you catch a shark that isn’t allowed, its gills must stay in the water. If you want to fish for sharks from the shore, you’ll need a Shore-based Shark Fishing permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. To get this permit, you’ll have to learn about the rules and pass a quiz.