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Big Bend Florida Sportsman Guide

Fishing Tactics

Bonnethead Shark

While you may encounter quite of few different species of shark while fishing the Big Bend waters, the Bonnethead is the one you will most likely catch inshore.  They will readily take a tipped jig throughout the summer.  They can be alot of fun on light tackle but are not as good a fighter as either the Jack Crevalle or Bonita.

I have never tried to eat one, so I can not comment on their taste.  This is strictly a catch and release fish for me while fishing inshore.  The Bonnethead shark is like a miniature Hammerhead.  The ones I have caught seldom exceed 2 to 3' in length.

Bonnethead Shark

bonnethead shark fishing tactics from big bend florida sportsman guide
 

Family Sphyrnidae, HAMMERHEAD SHARKS
Sphyrna tiburo


Description: broadly widened head in the shape of a shovel; only slight indentation of anal fin; front of head not notched at midline; gray or grayish-brown in color.

Similar Fish: other hammerhead sharks.

Where found: INSHORE species found in bays and estuaries.

Size: commonly 3 to 4 feet.

*Florida Record: n/a

Remarks: matures at about 3 feet in length and bears 6 to 12 young at one time; feeds chiefly on crabs and other crustaceans.

* The Florida records quoted are from the Department of Environmental Protection's printed publication, Fishing Lines and are not necessarily the most current ones. The records are provided as only as a benchmark.

Regulations


Min. Size Limits: None.

Closed Seasons: None.

Daily Rec. Bag Limit:  1 per person or 2 per vessel per day, whichever is less.

Remarks:  Practice of finning and filleting at sea prohibited. See list for protected species.