Mako Shark Fishing: Best Bait and Tackle

Mako Shark Fishing: Best Bait and Tackle

Mako sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus) are among the most prized game fish in the ocean, known for their incredible speed, acrobatics, and aggressive feeding behavior. Anglers targeting makos need the right bait and tackle to maximize their chances of a successful catch. This guide will cover the best bait choices, essential tackle, and tips for successfully hooking and landing these apex predators.

Understanding Mako Shark Behavior

Before selecting bait and tackle, it is crucial to understand the behavior of mako sharks. These pelagic predators are often found in offshore waters, particularly in warm currents. They are opportunistic feeders that prey on a wide range of fish, squid, and even marine mammals. Makos are known for their keen sense of smell and ability to detect vibrations in the water, making them highly efficient hunters.

Makos tend to be most active during dawn and dusk, but they will feed throughout the day, especially when stimulated by a well-prepared chum slick. Their aggressive nature means that once they locate food, they strike with incredible speed and power.

Best Bait for Mako Sharks

Selecting the right bait is critical to attracting and hooking mako sharks. The best bait options include:

1. Live Bait
Live bait is highly effective for mako sharks because it mimics their natural prey and triggers their predatory instincts. The best live bait options include:
- Bonito: A top choice due to its high oil content and strong scent.
- Mackerel: Another excellent option that produces a strong scent trail.
- Bluefish: A favorite for many shark anglers as it is abundant and highly attractive to makos.
- Skipjack Tuna: Works well due to its firm flesh and strong scent.
- Squid: Although not a fish, large squid are a natural prey item for makos and can be used effectively.

2. Dead Bait
Dead bait can also be highly effective, especially when used in conjunction with a strong chum slick. The best dead baits include:
- Mackerel: Its oily flesh produces a great scent trail.
- Bluefish: Holds up well and releases a strong scent in the water.
- Tuna Chunks: Large chunks of tuna can attract big makos from a distance.
- Eel: The unique movement and scent make it an effective option.

3. Chumming
Chumming is a crucial technique in mako shark fishing. A well-maintained chum slick attracts sharks from miles away. Effective chum options include:
- Ground fish (mackerel, menhaden, or tuna)
- Fish oils and blood
- Frozen chum blocks
- Fresh fish guts and carcasses

Maintaining a consistent chum line keeps mako sharks in the area and increases the likelihood of a strike.

Best Tackle for Mako Shark Fishing

Makos are powerful and aggressive fighters, requiring heavy-duty tackle. Here’s what you need:

1. Rods
A strong, sturdy rod is necessary for handling a mako’s power. Ideal rod specifications include:
- Stand-up rods (5’6” to 7’0”) rated for 50 to 130-pound test line.
- Heavy-action rods with strong backbones to withstand long fights.

2. Reels
Reels should have a high line capacity and a smooth, powerful drag system. The best options include:
- Conventional two-speed reels (Penn International, Shimano Tiagra, or Avet EX series).
- Reels capable of holding at least 500 yards of 80-130 lb. braided or monofilament line.
- Smooth, durable drag systems to handle explosive runs and aerial leaps.

3. Line
The right fishing line is critical for success:
- Mainline: 80-130 lb. monofilament or braided line.
- Leader: 300-400 lb. monofilament or wire leader to prevent bite-offs.
- Wire Leader: 10-15 feet of 300-400 lb. stainless steel wire to handle the mako’s sharp teeth.

4. Hooks
Circle hooks and J-hooks are both effective for mako sharks:
- 10/0 to 16/0 circle hooks reduce deep hooking and improve hook-up ratios.
- 9/0 to 12/0 J-hooks work well but require a firm hook-set.

5. Floats and Balloons
Using a float or balloon allows bait to stay in the strike zone while drifting in the chum slick. Adjustable floats help control bait depth.

6. Gaffs and Tail Ropes
Once a mako is near the boat, secure it with a flying gaff and a tail rope. Makos are dangerous at the boat, so caution is necessary.

Techniques for Hooking and Landing a Mako Shark

1. Setting Up the Chum Slick
Begin by establishing a strong chum slick to attract sharks. Fresh fish, ground chum, and fish oil work best. Maintain a steady chum line for at least an hour before deploying bait.

2. Deploying Baits
Position baits at varying depths (15-50 feet) using floats or balloons. Keep some baits drifting naturally in the chum slick.

3. Hooking a Mako
When a mako takes the bait:
- Let it run for a few seconds before setting the hook.
- If using a circle hook, apply steady pressure rather than a hard jerk.
- Be prepared for fast, powerful runs and aerial jumps.

4. Fighting the Shark
- Keep the rod tip up and use the reel’s drag to control the fight.
- Expect long runs and sudden changes in direction.
- Use a two-speed reel to maintain control during extended fights.

5. Landing the Shark
- Once the mako is near the boat, use a flying gaff to secure it.
- Immediately secure a tail rope for safety.
- Exercise extreme caution—makos are highly aggressive, even when seemingly subdued.

Safety Considerations
Mako sharks are dangerous and require careful handling. Key safety tips include:
- Never bring a live mako into the boat.
- Always use gloves when handling leader lines.
- Have a designated crew member ready with a gaff and tail rope.
- Keep emergency tools (knives, pliers, wire cutters) nearby in case of entanglements.

Conclusion
Mako shark fishing is an adrenaline-pumping experience that requires the right bait, tackle, and techniques. By using high-quality live or dead bait, maintaining a strong chum slick, and employing heavy-duty tackle, anglers can increase their chances of hooking and landing these formidable predators. With proper preparation and safety precautions, mako shark fishing can be both thrilling and rewarding for anglers seeking the ultimate offshore challenge.