Shark Fishing

Shark Fishing

Sharks are a joy to fish for. The satisfaction that comes with conquering this wild beast is unparalleled. One must approach the idea with conservation in mind, however. The reason conservation should be ever-present in the back of ones mind, is because sharks reproduce at a very slow rate compared to other species of fish. They mature later on in life and bare a much lower number of offspring than most species of fish. Some sharks are not even sexually mature until the age of eighteen, and even then, many sharks reproduce just once a year, and some only every other year. Man has to be careful and not only look to capture this wild beast, but preserve it in the wild for generations to come. Without proper conservation, it surely can become the Great Plains buffalo of the oceans.

Shark Fishing Tips

If you arrange a trip to go shark fishing, a boat at least 35 feet in length is preferred. It is imperative to have enough deck space for both your gear and multiple shark carcasses. The popular baits most commonly used for as bait include tuna, eels, and stingrays. Anything that will bleed is always good bait, as sharks can detect the smell of fresh blood. Of course, thanks to the protection of the US Government, you are not legally allowed to use protected fish, or game fish as shark bait. Another helpful tip is to use different baits if your trip is not successful in the beginning. Another important thing to consider on your shark fishing adventure is your float. You need to float your baits at different depths. Most often-used floats to are pieces of Styrofoam and balloons. Balloons are easier to connect to the line, and function very well for their intended purpose.

Florida Shark Fishing

Handling sharks requires patience, caution, and respect. At all times during shark fishing, be aware of the possible danger at hand. Sharks are very flexible because of their lack of a true backbone. Holding a shark by its tail, is never a wise move. Neither is holding the shark by their jaw plates or gills. The first gill arch is attached to the jaw plate and if you tear any of them, the shark can bleed to death. Cupping your hands around the pectoral fins and pulling them towards the body of the shark is the most preferred way of handling your catch. Whichever way you decide to handle your catch after reeling it in, use great caution. A shark's instinct to fight when it feels it is in danger and it will not suddenly lose its instincts in the custody of a fisherman.