What is the Best Bait for Shark Fishing?

Shark fishing requires bait that is both appealing and durable in the water. The best bait depends on the species of shark you're targeting, the location, and the time of year. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the best bait options:

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Bait
- Fresh bait is always better than frozen since it retains more natural oils and scent, which attract sharks more effectively.
- Frozen bait can work but should be used as fresh as possible and replaced frequently if it becomes too soft.

2. Best Natural Baits for Sharks
Sharks rely heavily on scent and movement, so oily, bloody, and strong-smelling baits work best. Here are some of the most effective options:

Fish Bait (Whole or Cut)
1. Mullet – Oily and bloody, making it an excellent choice.
2. Bonito – Very bloody with a strong scent trail; great for big sharks.
3. Mackerel (Spanish or King) – High oil content; works well cut or whole.
4. Bluefish – Very bloody, attracting larger sharks.
5. Ladyfish – Good for a variety of shark species, especially when used whole.
6. Jack Crevalle – Durable and stays on the hook well.
7. Barracuda – Extremely effective due to strong scent and toughness.
8. Tuna Heads/Guts – Strong scent, durable, and perfect for large sharks.

Non-Fish Bait
1. Ray Wings (Cow Nose or Stingray) – Great for targeting large sharks like bull sharks and hammerheads.
2. Squid – Works well when combined with other bait; good for smaller sharks.
3. Eels – Very tough, stays on the hook, and has a strong scent.

3. Live vs. Dead Bait
- Live bait (such as mullet, bluefish, or ladyfish) works well when sharks are feeding aggressively.
- Dead bait is more commonly used because it allows for a stronger scent trail.

4. How to Rig the Bait
- Use circle hooks (12/0 to 20/0) to prevent deep hooking and make catch-and-release easier.
- Attach wire leader (100-400 lb. test) to prevent sharks from biting through the line.
- Use a balloon or float rig to keep the bait off the bottom or a bottom rig when fishing near the seafloor.

5. Chumming for Sharks
- Chumming with a mix of fish parts, blood, and oil helps create a scent trail.
- Use a slow drip method to attract sharks without overfeeding them.