Shark fishing tips -How to catch Mako and Thresher Sharks

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How to Catch Thresher and Mako Sharks Off Southern California

Thresher Sharks

Best Locations

  • Nearshore Waters: Thresher sharks are often found in nearshore waters from spring to fall.

  • Submarine Canyons: Areas like Newport Submarine Canyon are prime spots for targeting thresher sharks.

Best Times

  • Spring to Fall: Thresher sharks are more active and abundant during these months.

  • Day and Night: Both day and night fishing can be productive, but night fishing can be particularly exciting.

Gear and Tackle

  • Rod and Reel: A heavy-duty rod and reel with 50-100 lb test line is recommended.

  • Terminal Tackle: Use circle hooks to minimize foul-hooking and ensure a clean catch.

  • Bait and Lures: Live bait such as sardines and small mackerel work well. Chumming can also attract thresher sharks.

Techniques

  • Drift Fishing: Drift over areas where thresher sharks are known to feed.

  • Chumming: Use a chum slick to attract sharks to your location.

  • Vertical Jigging: Mimic the movement of prey to attract thresher sharks.

Mako Sharks

Best Locations

  • Offshore Waters: Mako sharks are typically found in offshore ridges, canyons, and seamounts.

  • San Diego Area: The waters off San Diego are known for their mako shark fishing.

Best Times

  • June to October: Mako sharks are more abundant during these months.

  • Day and Night: Both day and night fishing can be productive, but night fishing can be particularly thrilling.

Gear and Tackle

  • Rod and Reel: A heavy-duty rod and reel with 80-130 lb test line is recommended.

  • Terminal Tackle: Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs and ensure a strong connection.

  • Bait and Lures: Fresh fish such as mackerel and squid are effective. Chumming can also attract makos.

Techniques

  • Chumming: Create a chum slick to attract makos to your location.

  • Trolling: Trolling deep-diving lures can be effective.

  • Fly Fishing: For a unique challenge, try fly fishing for makos.

Tips for Success

  • Be Patient: Both thresher and mako sharks can be elusive, so persistence is key.

  • Watch for Signs of Fish: Look for birds diving or fish jumping, as these can indicate the presence of baitfish and predatory sharks.

  • Safety First: Always prioritize safety when fishing for large sharks, as they can be powerful and unpredictable.

Catching these sharks can be an unforgettable experience. Good luck, and tight lines! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!

 

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My favorite reel for local tuna and Yellowtail is Accurate Boss Valiant, a reel every Southern California angler needs in their mix of rods and reels. Help support SportfishSanDiego.com if you buy one of these reels by making purchases from Amazon. I've searched and selected my local favorites for San Diego and SoCal sportfishing where diversity and several rod/reel combos come in handy when on a moments noticed you 60-80# Bluefin Tuna show up at the side of the boat. Here's the best deal on Amazon I found for the Boss Valiant BV-300 - Click image to buy now and support this website and more tips.

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SHIMANO Calcutta Conquest CTCNQ400 Reel - Right-Handed - This is the latest high-end Calcutta. I used to love my 400 though more maintenance than most reels it was worth the big performance in small package for local 3/4 open party fishing for Yellowtail, the most popular trips out of San Diego for Yellowtail.

Shimano CALCUTTA 400B, Round Baitcating Freshwater Fishing Reel - This is more like the older Calcutta 400's that were populare in the 90's. I really liked mine but again maintenance and drags got tempermental. The Conquest if in the angler's budget I highly recommend. When that one trophy Yellow comes to the boat the Conquest is the better reel.

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Accurate Boss Conventional Fishing Reels are one of the most popular Southern California angler fishing reel picks for Tuna and Big Game fish - Search or browse for the new Accurate Boss Fury FX-600X Reel - Right-Hand best price point reel or buy here!

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My favorite reel for local tuna and Yellowtail is Accurate Boss Valiant, a reel every Southern California angler needs in their mix of rods and reels. Help support SportfishSanDiego.com if you buy one of these reels by making purchases from Amazon. I've searched and selected my local favorites for San Diego and SoCal sportfishing where diversity and several rod/reel combos come in handy when on a moments noticed you 60-80# Bluefin Tuna show up at the side of the boat. Here's the best deal on Amazon I found for the Boss Valiant BV-300 - Click image to buy now and support this website and more tips.

Accurate Boss Valiant BV-300 - Link to Buy Now at Amazon

Shimano Calcutta Series - Best Fishing in Shimano Line Up For Yellowtail

SHIMANO Calcutta Conquest CTCNQ400 Reel - Right-Handed - This is the latest high-end Calcutta. I used to love my 400 though more maintenance than most reels it was worth the big performance in small package for local 3/4 open party fishing for Yellowtail, the most popular trips out of San Diego for Yellowtail.

Shimano CALCUTTA 400B, Round Baitcating Freshwater Fishing Reel - This is more like the older Calcutta 400's that were populare in the 90's. I really liked mine but again maintenance and drags got tempermental. The Conquest if in the angler's budget I highly recommend. When that one trophy Yellow comes to the boat the Conquest is the better reel.