Last Updated on September 23, 2022 by Eric Bonneman
The waters off the Mississippi coast are home to various shark species. If you’re an experienced angler looking for a new challenge or if you’ve always wanted to hook a shark, Mississippi is the place to do it.
Sharks in Mississippi
Here are things you may want to know about shark fishing in Mississippi’s inshore coastal waters, from what types of sharks you can expect to find to what kind of tackle you’ll need. So let’s get started!
Types of Sharks You Can Expect to Find
Several different shark species can be found in the inshore coastal waters off the coast of Mississippi. Some of the most common include blacktip sharks, bull sharks, tiger sharks, and lemon sharks. However, depending on the time of year and the water conditions, you may encounter other less common species, such as hammerheads and great white sharks.
The best way to find out what type of sharks are currently being caught in the area is to check with local fishermen, guides, bait and tackle shops, or charter companies. They will usually have up-to-date information on what’s being seen where.
What Kind of Tackle You’ll Need
As any experienced fisherman knows, the type of fish you’re trying to catch will determine the kind of gear you need. For example, if you’re hoping to land a small trout, you can get away with using a light rod and line. But if you’re targeting larger sharks, you’ll need much heavier equipment. An eight to ten-foot-long surf rod and spinning reel are an excellent place to start.
The reel should be able to hold at least 300 yards of line and have a drag rating of at least 25 pounds. As for the line and leader, we recommend using a 65 to 70-pound-test braided line tied to a three-foot-long 300-pound-test monofilament leader. And finally, be sure to use circle hooks. These hooks cause minimal harm to sharks and are easier to remove than other hooks. With the right gear, landing a giant shark is well within reach.
Bait-wise, you can use some sizeable artificial swim bait, but sharks are not picky eaters and will take large live or cut bait just as well.
With this equipment, you’re sure to reel in at least a blacktip, the most common shark to catch in the area.
Final Word
Shark fishing off the Mississippi coast can be a gratifying experience. But before you drop your line in the water, you must know what you’re getting yourself into. We hope we’ve given you a better understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for a successful shark fishing trip. Good luck and tight lines!
If you want to get out on the water and catch sharks and all other types of these inshore and nearshore fish, like redfish and snook, book your trip today! And most importantly, have fun and stay safe!
