Sharks
About the Fish
A few different species of sharks are found on the flats. These include black tip sharks, bonnet head sharks, lemon sharks, bull sharks, nurse sharks, spinner sharks. Sharks are on the flats chasing the bonefish and permit. They show up and ambush a hooked fish or are on the prowl. Sharks respond to scent, have poor eyesight and are unpredictable.
Seasons
Sharks are available year round.
Where to Catch Them
Sharks are found throughout the Florida Keys and follows the annual tarpon migration which bring in the big boys, always hungry, and willing to tangle with any angler. They visit the flats to feed on schools of bait, permit and bonefish.
How/ Techniques to Catch Them
Sharks can be sight fished on the flats and respond to top water plugs, cut or live bait. Some guides use a freshly caught barracuda or lady fish and anchor up. They will then hang the butter flied fish off the boat and have the sharks come to the boat by chumming.
Equipment Used to catch them
Sharks are extremely strong and have razor sharp teeth so a short piece of wire is a must. Stout spinning outfits in the 20 pound class are ideal. Hook sizes range from 2/0-4/0 circle hooks to avoid gut hooking, therefore a successful release. Fly rods in the 10-12 wt. class are used mostly. Top water poppers work wonders.
