Our Shark Fishing Charters in St. Pete Beach are a bucket list experience, for all ages. But we know that even the thought of a Shark can be overwhelming (there are over 400 species after all), so YACHTFISH has put together this guide to all things Shark fishing for Florida’s best fishing spot – St. Pete Beach
The Adrenaline Rush of a Lifetime
Sharks are considered one of the most exciting fish to catch. The sight of these iconic beasts is enough to make your heart pound (even when they’re small). They’re one of nature’s true wonders, and you’ll get to experience first-hand their power and strength.
They require a large amount of focus, determination and teamwork, to reel in making for a great experience for friends and anglers.
Is Florida Shark Fishing Safe?
The truth is that Sharks are not all dangerous beasts and many pose no threat to humans. Jaws wasn’t a true story! The majority of Sharks we catch are docile creatures and perfect for kids.
However, if you do want to go after a big impressive beast, then you’re guaranteed a harder fight with increased risk. Licensed Shark fishing charters are safe, as your charter Captain will operate the boat professionally and avoid behavior that can cause accidents.
Are Shark Fishing Charters Suitable For Families?
Yes! When going on a St. Pete Shark Fishing charter with YACHTFISH we’ll take you to hotspots of Sharks suitable for the ages in your family. We regularly help young kids and first-timers catch small Sharks that provide a thrilling but not-to-testing experience.
How Can I Go Shark Fishing in St. Pete Beach?
- To go Shark fishing in St. Pete Beach, you will need to either fish from the shore or go on a licensed fishing charter (such as YACHTFISH).
From the Shore
- When fishing from the shore (such as jetties, bridges and piers) you must pass an online educational course.
- You will then need to obtain an annual Shore-based Shark Fishing permit.
From a Vessel
- You do not need a permit to go on a Florida fishing charter.
- Recreational anglers do not need a HMS vessel permit.
- Using a licensed fishing charter ensures a safe and expert-guided experience, on state of the art equipment.
When Is The Best Time to Go Shark Fishing in St. Pete Beach?
- The summer is the best time to go Shark fishing in St. Pete Beach!
- From July on, the water is hot and the Sharks love it!
- Once temperatures drop late in the year, then Sharks are harder to find.
- The night is also a great time to catch Sharks in Florida!
What Species of Shark Can I Catch from St. Pete Beach:
Here are just a few of the common Sharks we catch on our YACHTFISH Shark fishing charters from St. Pete Beach:
Black Tip Shark
- Up to 8ft
- 66 to 210 lbs
- Taste like chicken
- The iconic Shark that everyone either dreams or fears meeting!
- Extremely powerful and leaps out of the water.
- Can be identified with their dark gray backs and white belly.
- Fast moving!
- They love sting rays, squids, lobster and crabs!
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
Black Nose Sharks
- Up to 6.1ft
- 15-24lbs.
- Meaty.
- Fast moving icons.
- Known for putting on a great show.
- Found in large schools, but never reported in Shark attacks.
- Tough!
- They come right up to the boat.
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
Bonnethead Sharks
- Up to 4ft.
- Perfect for kids due to their timid and shy nature.
- Great for photos.
- Extremely fun to catch for beginners and kids.
- Found in nearshore waters.
- Delicious!
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
Fine-Tooth Sharks
- Up to 6ft.
- Up to 24 lbs.
- One of the most challenging Sharks to catch in St. Pete Beach!
- Jumpers, with an iconic Shark look.
- Clear, sharp teeth.
- No threat to humans.
- Found in coastal waters, flats and bays.
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
Hammerhead
- Up to 8ft!
- Up to 1,000 lbs!
- A true beast of the Gulf of Mexico!
- A unique, ancient-looking appearance.
- A true trophy fish.
- Fantastic fighters.
- Found in deep waters, reefs, inlets and bays.
- The ultimate thrill!
- You can’t retain a catch, but not advised.
Shortfin Mako Sharks
- Up to 12 ft!
- Up to 100 lbs.
- Fast-swimmers, with razor-sharp teeth.
- Stunning acrobats.
- They make swooping dives to escape your line.
- A true trophy fish.
- Deep blue-backs and stunning crescent moon tails.
- Found around inshore areas and deep-sea fishing hotspots.
- You beat them with patience and energy, rather than pure strength.
- Delicious!
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
Thresher Sharks
- Up to 15ft!
- Up to 750 lbs!
- Thresher is the most common Shark caught around St. Pete Beach.
- Stunning, with large purple eyes and long, unique tails.
- Splashing fighters, who will make your heart pound.
- They love whole bait.
- You’ll need to drain their energy before you reel them in.
- Delicious and make great steaks!
- You can retain your catch, but not advised.
How to Catch Shark in St. Pete Beach
- You’ll get a different answer from every Shark angler, as various techniques can be deployed.
- Bottom fishing is often a great option, as the heavy tackle can attract exciting-looking Sharks feeding near the bottom of the water.
- You can use a continuous flow of bait to bring it to those hungry beasts, allowing them to swallow the bait before you strike! A good, constant and hard pressure is essential to fatigue them before you reel them in.
- If this is all too complicated for you, then YACHTFISH can make it easy! Our expert captain Matt Douglas will provide you with the optimal gear, the best advice and a helping hand to lure in a catch of a lifetime!
What Is the Bag Limit for Shark Catches in Florida?
- Harvestable Sharks can be caught 1 per person each day.
- A vessel can bag a maximum of 2 Sharks per trip.
Book a St. Pete Beach Shark Fishing Charter Now!
CALL or TEXT: YACHTFISH CHARTERS (727) 433-4200 to book a Shark fishing charter in St. Pete Beach today! We welcome all ages and all skill levels, from young novices to experienced anglers.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, as we are set to sell out soon. If you miss out on the peak months, you’ll have to wait until next year!
YACHTFISH will provide an unforgettable experience second to none with Fishing Charters from St. Pete Beach. St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach and Tampa Bay.
