Tampa Bay is a shark fishing hot spot! Capt. Mike Guerra AKA Capt.Scully landed a 8ft. hammer head in Port Manatee shipping channel on Tarpon spin gear!
Bonnetheads and nurse sharks have been on constant patrol in the shallow water grass flats. Bonnetheads have been ranging from 2-4 '
and I have been sighting numerous nurse sharks up to 7' in length. Look for them in 1.5''-4' of water. High water temperatures do not
seem to affect their appetites as it does other species of fish, which makes them a great fish to target in the heat of day! They are easily
sighted on the grass flats where they are lured by this years abundanceof bait fish. Anchor up, soak some cut bait, or troll the flats and do a little sight casting with light tackle. Either method will get the job done.
Recommended tackle: Eupro 7-8' spin rod 10-20 or 15-30lb test medium action. Eupro 20-30lb, braided line with 30-50lb. Eupro IT fluorocarbon leader with a 3/0-5/0 circle hook.
Now, if it's a Big shark you're after, fish any of the bridges, shipping channels, or offshore wrecks. The "Big Boys" include hammerheads and bulls sharks. The majority of which migrate to the bay from off-shore. They are following tarpon and large schools of bait fish in early May and June. For best results use big bait: whole ladyfish, mullet,spanish mackerel, or sting ray would be my baits of choice. Cut bonita also works. Try butterflying the sides and cutting off the tails.This will help to lend a scent trail and the butterflied sides fluttering in the current will act as an additional attractant.
Tackle recommendations:
Terminal tackle suggested 7'-8 ' Eupro Monster conventional rod. 6/0 or 30 wide conventional reel, spooled with 200lb Eupro braidedline. 8/0-16/0 Eupro J or circle hook. Hook size depends on bait size, the bigger the bait the bigger the hook. Wire leader suggested,use single or tandum hooks on wire leader rigs. These rigs
are available premade at your local tackle shop for easy use.
Other suggestions: Gaff and tail sling are essential when handling these apex predators and a fighting belt and chair can bea real back saver during a lengthy battle with a quality size
shark. Cut chum or a chum bag tied to your anchor line is always a good thing.
There's no wrong time to fish for sharks. Sharks are opportunists and are always on the look out for an easy meal. Although they are renowned night feeders, day time shark fishing
here in TAMPA BAY can be spectacular!
Anglers can expect to catch Black tips, bonnet heads,nurse, and spinner sharks on intermediate tackle. These species can be caught on the grass flats and shipping channels in the summertime or in close proximity of Tampa's warm water run-offs
during the winter months.
Don't let any one fool you there are plenty of resident hammerheads and bull sharks in Tampa Bay. These fish can be caught anytime of year. However, the best time to target these
brutes is during the summer and fall months while our water temperatures remain in the 80's.
For obvious reasons proceed with CAUTION when fishing for sharks! If you are not experienced in shark fishing, but would like to go sharking and return home with all your fingers, book a trip with Shamrock we will be happy to have you aboard.
For more information pertaining to shark fishing in Tampa Bay please go to www.shamrock-fishing-charters.com. Shark fishing type & technique can be found on the captain's page.
Till next time have a safe and quality day on the water!
Capt. Sean Hagen
EUPRO PRO-STAFF Director
"Fishing Like A Pro" with Eupro!
A Salty Shamrock Report
1877-357-HOOK!
