Shark fishing in Florida beaches is a popular and exciting activity that attracts both sport fishermen and tourists. From the East Coast to the Florida Keys, the Sunshine State offers a diverse range of shark species and prime fishing locations. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, this guide will provide you with the essential information to plan your shark fishing adventure in Florida beaches.
Best Places for Shark Fishing in Florida Beaches
Florida’s coastline offers a variety of prime shark fishing spots, each with its own unique characteristics and target species. Here are some of the best locations for shark fishing in Florida beaches:
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East Coast (Daytona to Jacksonville): This region is known for its high concentration of sharks, particularly during the summer months. Anglers can target species like Blacktip, Spinner, and Bull Sharks.
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Fort Myers: This area is a popular spot for shark fishing, especially during the winter months when species like Bonnethead and Blacktip are more active.
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The Florida Keys: The Keys are home to a large variety of shark species, including Bull, Mako, and Blacktip. The area offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round.
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Sarasota: Sarasota is ideal for surf fishing at Turtle Beach and chartering a boat to nearby reefs for a wider range of shark species.
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Destin: Destin is known for its diverse shark population, including Nurse, Spinner, and Mako, making it a popular spot for adrenaline seekers.
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Tampa Bay: Tampa Bay provides a nursery environment for sharks, with Bull Sharks attracted to the Alafia River’s mouth and Blacktip Sharks in Terra Ceia Bay.
Regulations and Permits
Shark fishing in Florida beaches is subject to specific regulations and permit requirements. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure a safe and legal fishing experience.
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Shore-Based Shark Fishing Permit: All shore-based shark anglers aged 16 and older, including those normally exempt from needing a fishing license, must obtain a Shore-Based Shark Fishing Permit. This permit must be renewed annually.
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Online Educational Course: Before obtaining the permit, anglers must complete an online course at MyFWC.com/SharkCourse.
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Gear Requirements: Non-offset, non-stainless steel circle hooks are required when using live or dead natural bait. Multiple hooks are prohibited unless using flies or artificial lures.
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Catch Limits: Anglers are allowed to keep one shark per person per day, with a maximum of two sharks per vessel.
Tips and Techniques
To ensure a successful and enjoyable shark fishing experience in Florida beaches, consider the following tips and techniques:
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Best Bait: Fresh dead, oily, and stinky fish like bluefish or ladyfish are effective for shark fishing.
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Strong Gear: Use a strong metal leader, a stout reel (at least 5500 series), a medium/heavy 7-foot rod, and 50-100 pound braided line.
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Shark Identification: Be able to identify the species you catch, as some are prohibited from harvest.
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Release Techniques: Release sharks in a way that increases their survival chances, and do not bring prohibited species onto a pier or bridge.
Charters and Guides
For those who prefer a guided experience, there are several reputable charters and guides that specialize in shark fishing in Florida beaches:
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Salty Knots Fishing Charters: Offers shark fishing charters in various locations, including Sarasota and Destin.
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Inshore Fishing Charters: Provides flats boat charters on the Treasure Coast, targeting species like bull sharks and bonnet head sharks.
Safety and Conservation
Shark fishing in Florida beaches requires responsible and safe practices to ensure the well-being of both anglers and the shark population.
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Shark Survival: Release sharks in a way that increases their survival chances to maintain healthy and sustainable shark populations.
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Negative Shark Encounters: Move to another area if you encounter shark activity, and avoid bringing large sharks onto a pier or bridge.
By following these guidelines and regulations, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable shark fishing experience in Florida beaches while also contributing to the conservation of these apex predators.
References:
– https://www.reddit.com/r/SharkFishing/comments/tef3n6/best_places_in_florida_for_surf_shark_fishing/
– https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/sharks/
– https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/outdoors/fishing/2023/02/20/shark-fishing-in-florida-legal-what-you-need-to-know/69925741007/
– https://fishyourassoff.com/shark-fishing-florida-tips.html
– https://stpetersburgfishingcharters.com/where-is-the-best-shark-fishing-in-florida/