Bull shark in Florida

Meet the species

Bull shark
Image credit: © diane rome peebles

Scientific name

Carcharhinus leucas

Overview

Inhabits estuarine, nearshore and offshore waters of both the gulf and atlantic coasts of Florida. Bull sharks have a wide range of salinity tolerances and commonly enter freshwater systems as well as hypersaline lagoons. They are the only shark species that can tolerate long periods of freshwater exposure, sometimes venturing hundreds of miles inland via coastal river systems.

At a glance

Regions
Statewide gulf, statewide atlantic, inland central
Water
Saltwater
Bait
Live mullet/pinfish/herring, cut mullet or ladyfish & chum

Florida fishing record

Weight
517 lb 7 oz
Location
Panama city bch
Date
Oct 1, 1981
Angler
Gregory K. Burnett
Type
Florida state record

Open record source

Record catch notes

517.44 lb; by gregory K. Burnett; on 10/01/1981; at panama city bch

When to fish

Good months

January–december

More season details

Where to fish

Florida regions

Statewide gulf, statewide atlantic & inland central

Water

Saltwater

Habitat

Inhabits estuarine, nearshore and offshore waters of both the gulf and atlantic coasts of Florida. Bull sharks have a wide range of salinity tolerances and commonly enter freshwater systems as well as hypersaline lagoons. They are the only shark species that can tolerate long periods of freshwater exposure, sometimes venturing hundreds of miles inland via coastal river systems.

More locations and access

How to catch

Mixed live/cut with chum, short wire to circle hook, 15–30 lb class & dehooker/gloves

Bait

Live mullet/pinfish/herring, cut mullet or ladyfish & chum

Videos

Sources

Fishing videos from local voices

Information comes from the supplied source datasets. Check linked FWC regulations for current rules.