If you have never fished for sharks before, there is some basic information you will need to know
before you get out on the water. Sharks are very aggressive and
can also be very dangerous, here are some of the things you need to know about shark
fishing.
As in any endeavor, preparation is the key to success. Shark fishing is no exception. I would suggest making a checklist before leaving home. and make sure you have everything
that you will need. You will need a strong fishing rod and fishing reel that can stand at
least 50 pound test. Since you don't want to fall in and become bait, you will need to have a safety harness.
Sharks will take many types
of bait. Among the many types are live bait, which is preferred, cutting
the tail off the bait will increase the scent also. Chum will also greatly
increase you chances of hooking up with a shark. If you bloody the waters the sharks will come. It has been speculated that sharks can smell blood for miles.
The best
time for shark fishing 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.
Decide what species of shark you are fishing for,
this will give you an idea of the size hook and bait needed. Once you
have that figured out and have the chum in the water, then it is time to get the
fishing lines in.
You should have your drag set at medium, so that when a shark hits the bait, the hook will set. If the drag is too loose it will
be harder to set the hook, if it is too light you could snap the line. The real sport of shark fishing is fighting the
fish. As in any other fishing with fighting fish, lift the fishing rod up and crank the fishing reel in while lowering the rod.
Continue this process until the shark is at the boat.
Once you have the
shark up to the boat you have the option of landing it or setting it free. To
land a shark you are going to need help, you can gaff the shark if it is not to big, but if the shark is huge, you will have to rope the shark inland tied behind or beside
the boat.
Sharks have been over fished in the past and used only
for their fins. This is now illegal. You should only keep the shark if it is to be food or a trophy. You can help protect and preserve the shark species by cutting the
line and letting them go, The hook will eventually rot and will not harm the
shark if the line is cut.