Summer Time Shark Fishing In Tampa Bay
Capt. Sean Hagen
September 9, 2008
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
Lemons, Blacktips, Bonnett Heads, Spinners
and Bull sharks are prevelent throughout the bay
in the hot month of August.
During the summer, shark fishing can get
hotter then the thermometer in Tampa Bay. Often,
when the bite slows down or shuts off for other
species, "The man in the gray suit" can easily
be persuaded to chew.
In my experience sharks are not picky in
in regards to the 3 W's: When, Where, or What
they eat.
First, I'll answer when. Sharks, like other
fish, eat when they are hungry. However, with the
aid of a chum bag, and an effective slick they
can still be inticed to take the bait when they
are not ordinarily feeding.
Where can sharks be caught? Just about
anywhere you find saltwater. To narrow this down
a bit, most sharks I've been catching have been
in the shipping channels and along the bridges
in 10-40ft of water.
What is the best bait to use? I prefer
anything fresh and bloody. Ladyfish are always a
go to bait as well as mullet, bonita, jack, and
blackdrum. Whether cut in strips, chunks, or
butterflied, you can't go wrong
As far as what size tackle to use, that
depends on the size shark you're targeting.
A good intermediate rig would be a 4 to 6/0
conventional reel on a heavy action rod, 80-100lb
main line with wire leader and 6-9/0 circle hook.
Just remember, these critters have razor sharp
teeth, so be careful when bringing them boatside.
Target Species:
shark
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