Bull Shark

Oceans & Range: All tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, including freshwater rivers. Found in the Atlantic from New England to Brazil, throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and along both coasts of Africa. In the Pacific from Baja California to Peru. Notably enters freshwater — found hundreds of miles up the Mississippi and Amazon rivers.

Preferred Water Temperature: 70°F–84°F. A warm water shark that thrives in shallow, murky coastal waters, river mouths, estuaries, and even freshwater. One of the few sharks fully adapted to freshwater environments.

Size & Weight: Typically 7–9 feet and 200–400 lbs. Maximum over 11 feet and 700 lbs. World record: 697 lbs 9 oz. Considered the most dangerous shark to humans due to its preference for shallow, murky water where people swim. A short, stocky, powerfully built shark.

Best Lures: Large swimbaits and jerkbaits occasionally produce strikes. Large surface poppers attract aggressive fish. Heavy conventional gear is required for any Bull Shark fishing.

Best Baits: Large whole stingrays are the top Florida and Gulf Coast bait for trophy Bull Sharks. Fresh whole jack and ladyfish are excellent. Large chunks of any oily fish work in a chum slick. Whole fresh mullet are very effective. 80–130 lb tackle is standard for large fish.

All tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, including freshwater rivers. Found in the Atlantic from New England to Brazil, throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and along both coasts of Africa. In the Pacific from Baja California to Peru. Notably enters freshwater — found hundreds of miles up the Mississippi and Amazon rivers.

70°F–84°F. A warm water shark that thrives in shallow, murky coastal waters, river mouths, estuaries, and even freshwater. One of the few sharks fully adapted to freshwater environments.

Best Lures: Large swimbaits and jerkbaits occasionally produce strikes. Large surface poppers attract aggressive fish. Heavy conventional gear is required for any Bull Shark fishing. Best Baits: Large whole stingrays are the top Florida and Gulf Coast bait for trophy Bull Sharks. Fresh whole jack and ladyfish are excellent. Large chunks of any oily fish work in a chum slick. Whole fresh mullet are very effective. 80–130 lb tackle is standard for large fish.

Typically 7–9 feet and 200–400 lbs. Maximum over 11 feet and 700 lbs. World record: 697 lbs 9 oz. Considered the most dangerous shark to humans due to its preference for shallow, murky water where people swim. A short, stocky, powerfully built shark.