Blacktip Shark fishing in Florida

Blacktip sharks are the classic Florida surf shark, fast and acrobatic, often spinning out of the water when hooked. On the southeast Atlantic coast huge numbers migrate close to the beach in late winter and early spring, while along the Gulf and elsewhere they are common through spring and summer around passes, beaches and pier ends. They hunt baitfish schools in the surf, so look for mullet, menhaden or jacks being pushed around, and fish a rising tide, dawn, dusk and night. A fresh chunk of mullet, menhaden or ladyfish on a shark rig with a wire leader and a 7/0 to 12/0 non-stainless circle hook, cast or paddled past the bar, is standard; 30 to 50 lb line with plenty of line capacity handles most fish. Shore-based shark fishing in Florida requires a free FWC shore-based shark fishing permit and specific gear and handling, and some sharks are prohibited and must stay in the water, so identify every shark and check current FWC rules before keeping one. Use long pliers or a dehooker, keep hands away from the jaws, and release fish quickly in the wash.