Blacknose Shark

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from North Carolina south through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to southern Brazil. A nearshore and offshore species found in 60–200 feet of water along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Less commonly encountered than Blacktip or Bull Sharks.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–82°F. A warm-water species of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts that migrates seasonally. Found in coastal waters over sandy and coral reef bottoms.

Size & Weight: Typically 3–4.5 feet and 20–40 lbs. Maximum approximately 6 feet. Named for the dark smudge on the tip of its snout. A slender, streamlined shark that is an excellent fighter on light tackle.

Best Lures: Small to medium swimbaits and jerkbaits produce strikes. Flashy spoons attract fish in clear water.

Best Baits: Live blue runners are an excellent bait. Fresh cut fish produce consistent action. Small whole squid work well. Live shrimp catch fish in shallow water. Light to medium tackle with 30 lb leader.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from North Carolina south through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to southern Brazil. A nearshore and offshore species found in 60–200 feet of water along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Less commonly encountered than Blacktip or Bull Sharks.

68°F–82°F. A warm-water species of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts that migrates seasonally. Found in coastal waters over sandy and coral reef bottoms.

Best Lures: Small to medium swimbaits and jerkbaits produce strikes. Flashy spoons attract fish in clear water. Best Baits: Live blue runners are an excellent bait. Fresh cut fish produce consistent action. Small whole squid work well. Live shrimp catch fish in shallow water. Light to medium tackle with 30 lb leader.

Typically 3–4.5 feet and 20–40 lbs. Maximum approximately 6 feet. Named for the dark smudge on the tip of its snout. A slender, streamlined shark that is an excellent fighter on light tackle.