Florida is a state in the southeastern region of the United States. It is the third most populous state in the country and the 22nd largest by area. Shark fishing is popular in Florida, especially in the coastal areas. When shark fishing in Florida, knowing the shark fishing regulations is essential. Some species, such as the great hammerhead and basking sharks, are secured. Shark finning is also illegal in Florida. Anglers must use catch-and-release techniques for prohibited species. Now we will explore the various aspects of shark fishing in Florida. It includes the different shark species in the area and the regulations surrounding Florida shark fishing. We will also see the ethical considerations that come with this activity.

What Shark Species Can I Find in Florida?

You can find over 20 types of sharks in Florida waters. Sharks vary, from a smalltail shark a few feet long for small-tail sharks in Florida to 40 feet for massive whale sharks.

Some of the most commonly targeted shark species in Florida include bull sharks, blacktip sharks, bigeye sand tiger sharks, blue sharks, nurse sharks, and spinner sharks. You may also find the bignose shark, Galapagos shark, bigeye sixgill shark, big bull shark, and sevengill shark in Florida.

Some others include protected shark fisheries and prohibited shark species. It includes great hammerhead, basking, silky, and oceanic whitetip sharks. Let’s talk about common shark species in Florida.

1. Caribbean Reef Shark

The Caribbean sharpnose shark, commonly found in Florida waters, has a streamlined body. You can see them in coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy flats.

2. Bull Sharks

It is popular for its tolerance to both saltwater and freshwater. You can find them in Florida’s estuaries, bays, and rivers.

3. Blacktip Sharks

Blacktip sharks, common in shallow Florida waters, are famous for their acrobatic displays. You can catch them by recreational and commercial fishermen.

How to Shark Fishing Florida: Tips and Techniques

Some common ways to catch a shark in Florida include using large reels with heavy-duty lines. Baiting with fresh or live bait such as mullet or bonito and fishing from a boat or shore may effectively target sharks.

Look for areas with deep water, such as channels, drop-offs, and reefs. In these areas, sharks are likely to be feeding.

13 Best Spots for Shark Fishing in Florida

From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, anglers can find everything from the elusive whale to the fierce tiger shark. The state offers many options for both recreational and commercial shark fishing. Now we’ll highlight some of Florida’s best shark fishing spots.

1. Florida Keys

Shark fishing in Florida Keys (Florida) is popular for recreational fishermen looking to catch various species of sharks.

The area is popular for its diverse shark population. It includes the bull, tiger, sandbar, spinner, lemon, and blacktip.

It is important to note that some sharks are protected or prohibited. It includes the whale, the basking shark, the Atlantic angel shark, and the great hammerhead shark.

Fishing trips for sharks in the Florida Keys typically range from 2 to 7 days. There are various regulations in place to ensure the sustainability of shark fisheries.

Several shark fishing techniques include surf fishing and baited hook fishing. Dead baits are used to catch massive sharks. You can catch smaller sharks using live bait or lures.

Shark fishermen should be aware of the different species of sharks in the area and their corresponding regulations. It is also important to note that shark finning, the practice of removing a shark’s fins and discarding the body, is prohibited in Florida.

2. Sarasota

Sarasota is nestled along Florida’s picturesque western coastline. It is a celebrated hotspot for thrill-seeking anglers who relish the challenge of shark fishing.

The sparkling waters are home to various sharks, including bull, spinner, blacktip, sandbar, and lemon sharks. They offer an impressive display of shark diversity.

You can catch some of the larger species of blue sharks. The coast of Sarasota includes tigers, great hammerheads, and even the occasional whale shark.

Fishing trips for sharks in Sarasota typically target shark kinds ranging from 21–60 inches in length. Some charters may focus on larger sharks up to 7 feet.

Bull and spinner blacktip sharks are the most common species targeted on these trips. They are all popular for recreational shark fishing.

Shark fishermen in Sarasota typically use dead bait on a hook to catch sharks. Some may also chase sharks using a sight fishing approach. While shark finning is illegal in Florida, catch-and-release shark fishing is popular in Sarasota.

3. Destin

Destin, on the picturesque northwest coast of Florida, is an angler’s paradise for shark fishing enthusiasts. It offers an impressive array of shark kinds that call these azure waters their home.

From the fierce bull and nimble blacktip shark to the majestic sandbar shark, the diversity of shark kinds in the area is awe-inspiring.

Fishing trips for sharks offer a unique opportunity for the daring and adventurous to land larger species, like the tiger and great hammerhead sharks.

You can do shark fishing in Destin from shore or on a boat. Surf fishing and sight fishing are both popular methods. Baited hooks catch more sharks, and dead baits can be particularly effective.

The Caribbean reef shark, Atlantic angel, and whale shark are some of the rarer species. You may encounter them on fishing trips for sharks in Destin.

4. Fort Myers

Fort Myers in Florida offers an excellent opportunity for shark fishing. The area is famous for its diverse species of sharks. It ranges from the various tiger and sandbar sharks to the elusive whale and basking shark.

Recreational fishing trips for sharks are available for those looking to catch sharks ranging from 21 to 60 inches long.

You can target some of the other species during fishing trips for sharks. It includes the Atlantic angel, bigeye sand tiger, bigeye sixgill, Galapagos, blue, and spinner sharks.

You may also catch the Galapagos shark, blue, lemon, dusky shark, night, nurse sharks, bigeye thresher shark, and longfin mako sharks in Fort Myers.

The best seasons for shark fishing in Fort Myers, Florida, are typically from late spring through early fall. The peak season is from June through August. The water temperature is warm, and sharks are more active and abundant in the area.

5. Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is a large natural harbour and estuary located on the west coast of Florida. It is covered by several cities, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. It is popular for its diverse marine life.

Tampa Bay is home to a variety of fish species. It includes tarpon, redfish, snook, and several species of sharks, such as bull, hammerhead, and blacktips.

When targeting sharks in Tampa Bay, some of the best spots to try include Turtle Beach and the mudflats. Sight fishing can be an effective technique for fishing for sharks in shallow water. Baited hooks with dead bait are used to attract larger sharks.

You can catch some species, like the blacktip and bull sharks, and keep them for consumption. Others, like the great hammerhead and white sharks, are secured.

6. Pensacola

Pensacola is a city in the northwest part of Florida, in Escambia County.

It is an excellent location for shark fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of shark kinds. Some of the most common sharks caught in the area include bull, sandbar, and blacktip sharks.

Calm seas with light winds and clear skies make for good shark fishing conditions. The best weather for shark fishing in Pensacola, Florida, is during the summer months. When the water is warm from March to October, all the sharks are more active.

Pensacola Bay Bridge is a great spot to catch a variety of sharks kinds, including bull sharks and sandbar sharks. Fort Pickens Pier is another popular spot for shark fishing. Anglers have been popular for catching blacktips and even hammerhead sharks.

Gulf Shores is a great spot, especially in the summer when large tiger and bull sharks are common. Perdido Key has a variety of species, including blacktip and sandbar sharks.

7. Apalachicola

Apalachicola is a historic town in the Florida Panhandle region of the United States. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, unique architecture, and fresh seafood.

Shark fishing in Apalachicola can be a thrilling experience, with the opportunity to catch various shark species ranging from 2 to 60 feet in length.

Some of the commonly caught species in this area include bull sharks (7-16 feet), spinner sharks (2-4 feet), blacktip sharks (3-8 feet), and lemon sharks (1-3 feet).

However, other shark kinds, such as the whale (1-2 feet), Atlantic angel (1-2 feet), and basking (1-2 feet), are protected species.

Bull sharks are popular and inhabit the East Bay and the Apalachicola River drainage area. They are a highly adaptable species of shark. They can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments. It makes them one of the few species of shark that can survive and even breed in rivers.

Recreational trips for shark fishing in Apalachicola typically use baited hooks. You can do it via surfcasting or from a boat in the Gulf Stream. You can also use dead bait to catch fish. It is important to avoid using prohibited species as bait.

8. Apalachee Bay

The Apalachee Bay/Big Bend area of Florida is an excellent location for shark fishing due to the variety of shark species inhabiting these waters.

Some of the most common shark species that you can find in this region include bull, sandbar, blacktip, and spinner sharks. These majestic creatures are a sight to behold. They provide a thrilling challenge for fishermen looking for a unique and exciting experience.

Many charter companies offer shark fishing trips in this area. They typically use baited hooks to attract sharks and reel them for catch and release.

One such spot for shark fishing is the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. It offers a vast expanse of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and coastal forests that are popular for harboring a variety of sharks kinds.

Another popular location for night shark, is the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory in Panacea. It provides access to deeper waters where you can find larger sharks kinds. Other great spots for night shark fishing in the Apalachee Bay/Big Bend area include Wakulla Beach, Shell Point Beach, and Alligator Point.

9. Clearwater

Clearwater, Florida, is a popular destination for best shark fishing, with a variety of shark kinds found in the area. It is one of the best shark fishing places in Florida.

Some more common species include blacktip, spinner, and sandbar. There are also opportunities to catch massive sharks, such as tiger sharks, and even whale sharks, although these are rarer sightings.

The best time for shark fishing in Clearwater, Florida, is typically during the warmer months from March through October. During this time, there is usually an abundance of bait fish in the area, which can also attract sharks.

In the Clearwater area, shark fishing trips are inshore and offshore. Some trips focus on specific species, such as the Atlantic angel, the bigeye sand tiger shark, and the protected great hammerhead shark.

In addition to shark fishing, Clearwater offers a variety of other fishing opportunities. It includes surf fishing, sight fishing, and fishing in the nearby Gulf Stream. Other popular fish species caught in the area include Spanish mackerel, speckled trout, and even the occasional turtle.

When shark fishing in Clearwater, fishermen typically use baited hooks to attract the sharks. Some anglers prefer dead bait, while others may use live bait. Oyster bars, mud flats, and other structures are good locations to target smaller sharks.

10. Indian River

It is famous for its abundant wildlife, including various species of sharks. Some popular spots for catching a shark in the river are the Sebastian Inlet, Vero Beach, and Fort Pierce Inlet.

Some common shark kinds found in the river include the blacktip, lemon, bonnethead, nurse, and bull sharks. These species can range in size from a few feet to over 10 feet in length. Anglers use live or cut bait and fish from a boat or shore.

The best time to go shark fishing in the Indian River is during the warmer months. If you’re planning a shark angling trip in Florida, it’s best to go with experienced shark fishermen. They are well-versed in the state’s shark fishing regulations and can guide you accordingly.

It’s important to follow local regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before going shark fishing in the river. It’s also essential to handle the sharks carefully. Reaching them back into the water quickly would ensure their survival.

11. Mosquito Lagoon

Mosquito Lagoon boasts impressive aquatic life along Florida’s picturesque east coast. It includes a variety of shark kinds that make it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.

In the lagoon, you can find an eclectic mix of sharks. From the powerful and aggressive bull shark to the sleek and silky shark, the speedy blacktip shark, the elusive lemon shark, and the quirky, bonnethead sharks, and white shark too.

Whether you choose to cast your line from the shore or aboard a boat, shark angling in Mosquito Lagoon is an unforgettable experience. It offers a chance to test your skills against some of the ocean’s top predators.

Anglers opt for live bait such as mullet or blue crabs. It would be best to equip them with a sturdy tackle to withstand these formidable fish’s strong, ferocious pulls.

It is recommended to look for areas with deeper water and good current flow, such as channels or drop-offs. Shark fishing can also be productive around inlets and areas where baitfish are present.

From the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape to the excitement of the chase, it’s a day to remember.

Whether you are an experienced angler or just beginning to explore the world of shark fishing, Mosquito Lagoon promises to deliver an adventure you will never forget.

12. Miami

Miami is a world-renowned destination for shark fishing, attracting anglers from all over the globe. In the southeastern region of Florida, Miami boasts a thriving fishing industry. It is home to various species of sharks, making it an ideal location for shark fishing.

One of the most popular spots for shark fishing in Miami is the Biscayne Bay. It is popular for its crystal clear waters and diverse marine life. Here, anglers can catch a variety of sharks, including blacktip, hammerhead, and bull sharks, among others.

The nearby Miami Beach and Haulover Beach are also great spots for shark fishing. It offers anglers the opportunity to catch larger species, such as tigers and thresher sharks.

In South Beach, Government Cut is another popular spot for shark fishing. It is a man-made channel that connects the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. It is home to a variety of shark kinds, such as blacktips and hammerheads.

Key Biscayne is a beautiful island located south of Miami. It offers some excellent opportunities for shark fishing. The waters around the island are home to a variety of sharks kinds such as bull, tiger sharks, and blacktip sharks.

13. Daytona Beach

The beach’s location in the state provides easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, home to many species of sharks.

The Sunglow Pier is one of the best spots for shark fishing in Daytona Beach. It extends 1,000 feet into the ocean. The pier offers anglers the opportunity to catch a variety of shark kinds. It includes blacktip, sandbar, spinner, and dusky sharks.

Another great spot for fishing in Florida Daytona Beach is the Ponce Inlet Jetty. It is on the southern end of the beach. This area is famous for its large bull sharks and other species, such as blacktip and lemon sharks.

Anglers can also try their luck fishing from the shore at various points along the beach. Fresh bait, such as mullet or bluefish, can also attract sharks near the west coast.

14. Biscayne Bay

Biscayne Bay is a shallow, subtropical lagoon in southeastern Florida, United States. It is approximately 35 miles long and up to 8 miles wide, covering an area of 428 square miles.

Shark fishing is allowed in Biscayne Bay, but regulations and restrictions exist. You must follow them to protect the populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has specific rules regarding shark fishing, including size limits, catch limits and gear restrictions.

You may find hammerhead, bull, lemon, nurse, and blacktip sharks.

One popular spot for shark fishing in Biscayne Bay is around the channels and inlets, such as Government Cut, Haulover Inlet, and Port Miami. These areas can attract sharks as they move in and out of the bay with the tides.

15. New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is located in Volusia County, Florida, United States. It is situated on the east coast of Florida, about 15 miles south of Daytona Beach and 50 miles northeast of Orlando.

Shark fishing is a popular activity in New Smyrna Beach, thanks partly to the area’s reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World.” While this may sound intimidating, it’s important to note that the vast majority of shark encounters in New Smyrna Beach are harmless.

One of the area’s most popular spots for shark fishing is around the New Smyrna Inlet, located at the beach’s northern end. This area is popular for its strong currents and abundant baitfish, which can attract various species of shark.

The Ponce Inlet jetties and offshore artificial reefs are two additional locations well-known for shark fishing in New Smyrna Beach.

Conclusion

Shark fishing offers an exciting and challenging experience for anglers of all skill levels. Mudflats, oyster bars, and the Indian River are good places for sight shark fishing trip. You can use baited hooks with mackerel to catch sharks in Florida. You can also target massive sharks like bull sharks. You can use sight fish fishing in shallow waters, such as mud flats and oyster bars. Some anglers prefer surf fishing, while others prefer shark fishing trips. It is important to respect the shark kinds and follow the regulations to ensure the sustainability of the fishery.

To check our full guides on fishing techniques and tips, please click here.