Shark Fishing off the Jersey Shore

Shortfin Mako

The blue-water thoroughbred. Mako sharks are the fastest sharks in the ocean, capable of explosive leaps and blistering runs. Trophy makos push 500+ pounds, though fish in the 100-300 pound range are more common. Makos are highly regulated with strict size limits (54" fork length minimum) and one per vessel limits. Prime season is June through August.

Thresher Shark

Thresher sharks are instantly recognizable by their massive scythe-like tails—sometimes longer than their body. These sharks use their tails to stun prey and are famous for tail-slapping on the surface when hooked. Threshers commonly reach 200-400 pounds and are excellent eating when legal to keep. Like makos, they're heavily regulated.

Blue Shark

The most abundant offshore shark, blue sharks provide consistent action when targeting other species proves slow. Blues are beautiful—deep indigo above, bright blue sides, white below—and fight well for their size. Most are released as they're not prized for eating, but they offer good sport, particularly for novice shark anglers.

Sandbar Shark

The inshore workhorse. Sandbar sharks patrol coastal waters and are frequently caught from surf, piers, and boats fishing close to shore. Currently prohibited from harvest, sandbars offer excellent catch-and-release fishing during summer months. Fish commonly run 100-150 pounds.

Other Species

Brown sharks, smooth dogfish, and occasional visitors like dusky sharks and tiger sharks round out NJ's shark diversity. Regulations vary by species—verify before targeting or keeping any shark.

Chumming

Most offshore shark fishing involves chumming—creating a scent trail that draws sharks to the boat. Frozen chum logs, ground bunker, and fish oil create an oily slick that sharks follow for miles. The key is consistency—keep fresh chum flowing to maintain the slick.

Live Baiting

Live bluefish and bunker are deadly on makos and threshers. Fish them on heavy circle hooks with steel leader, either on a float or free-swimming behind the boat. Live bait often produces larger sharks than chunk or dead bait.

Chunk Bait

Fresh chunks of bunker, bluefish, or tuna drifted back in the chum slick catch all offshore species. Use heavy tackle—80-130 lb class—with steel leaders and large circle hooks. Set baits at various depths to cover the water column.

Tackle Requirements

Offshore sharks demand serious gear:

• 80-130 lb class stand-up or bent-butt rods
• Heavy two-speed reels with smooth drags
• Wire or cable leader (steel)
• Large circle hooks (12/0-16/0)
• Fighting belt and harness

Beach Sharking

Surf fishing for sharks is a specialized pursuit that requires different tactics than standard surf fishing. Target sharks after dark when they move into the wash zone to feed. Dawn and dusk are also productive.

Bait Selection

Fresh bait is essential. Whole bunker, large chunks of bluefish, and fresh stingray or skate wings are proven shark baits. The smellier the better—sharks hunt by scent. Some anglers use chum bags to create a scent trail toward their baits.

Tackle for Surf Sharks

Heavy surf gear is required:

• 10-12 ft heavy surf rod
• Large spinning reel with 50+ lb braid
• Heavy wire or cable leader
• Large circle hooks (8/0-12/0)
• Pyramid or anchor sinkers (6-10 oz)

Landing Considerations

Safely handling sharks on the beach requires planning. Use long pliers or dehooking tools. Never put hands near the mouth. Cut the leader if the shark can't be safely unhooked. Keep the fish in water as much as possible. Quick photos, then release facing into the current.

Prohibited Species

Several shark species are prohibited from harvest entirely, including sandbar sharks, many hammerhead species, and others. It's critical to know which species you're targeting and their specific regulations before fishing.

Size Limits

Makos must be at least 54" fork length (males) or 71" (females). Threshers have a 54" fork length minimum. Blue sharks have no minimum but limited bag limits. Regulations change—always verify before keeping any shark.

Permit Requirements

Vessels fishing for sharks in federal waters (beyond 3 miles) need an HMS permit. Charter boats have permits; private boats must obtain their own. Permit is required even for catch-and-release.

Conservation Mindset

Shark populations have declined significantly. Many anglers now practice catch-and-release for all species. If you must harvest, take only what you'll eat and stay well within legal limits. The future of shark fishing depends on healthy populations.