Shark Fishing Hilton Head Island
Here’s a comprehensive list of essential shark fishing supplies:
1. Rod and Reel:
– Rod: Heavy to extra-heavy power, 7-12 feet long
– Reel: Large spinning (6500-8000 size) or conventional (30-50 size)
– Example setup: 6’6″ Shark Bound custom 3X5 Seeker rod with AVET 80 T-RX reel
2. Line:
– Braided line: 50-200 lb test
– Monofilament topshot: 200 lb test (for larger setups)
3. Leader:
– Two-part construction:
a) Bite trace: 3-6 feet of 400-1000 lb wire or heavy mono
b) Rubbing leader: 12-16 feet of wire or heavy mono
4. Hooks:
– Circle hooks recommended
– Sizes: 12/0 Eagle Claw L2004 for smaller sharks, 18/0-24/0 for larger species
5. Bait:
– Live bait: mullet, bonito, mackerel, etc.
– Dead/cut bait: strong-smelling fish
– Artificial lures: topwater plugs, diving plugs, twitch baits
6. Bait Deployment:
– Kayak (e.g., Ocean Frenzy) or remote-controlled boat (e.g., Aquacat Turbo X)
– VHF radio for communication
7. Fighting Gear:
– Fighting plate with harness (e.g., Barrett Rod Company Fighting Plate with AFTCO Maxforce Harness)
– Rod rack for beach fishing
8. Dehooking Tools:
– Large wire cutters or bolt cutters
– Long-handled dehooker
9. Safety Equipment:
– Lightweight waders
– Spotlight (5,000 lumens) and headlamp (350 lumens)
10. Additional Gear:
– Swivels and clips (if using)
– Weights (for strong currents)
– Tail rope (for non-protected species)
– Tagging kit (if participating in research programs)
– First aid kit
– Camera for documentation
Remember to always prioritize the safety of both the angler and the shark, and follow local regulations and conservation guidelines when shark fishing.
Citations:
[1] https://fishingbooker.com/blog/shark-fishing/
[2] https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/gear/shark-gear-for-conservation-minded-anglers/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie5h8aDp4s0
[4] https://www.reelsandtackle.com/articles–blog/catching-shark-on-artificial-lures
[5] https://www.rokmax.com/blogs/news-and-advice/2018-shark-fishing-season-guide
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ1j8yXDXmU
[7] https://sandbartackle.com/portfolio-item/how-to-catch-sharks/
[8] https://www.gerrysfishing.com/product-category/sea-fishing/shark-fishing/
