Shark

A variety of tactics are used to attract sharks to an area of baited hooks. Sharks can be attracted from great distances by low frequency vibrations set up by sound waves in the water. Anglers pound or bang objects off the side of the boat or splash buckets in the water as a means of attracting sharks. A few go to extremes such as playing music from waterproof speakers placed in the water. Chumming is considered the most effective method for attracting sharks. The simplest method is to periodically ladle a mixture of ground fish and water over the side of the boat, occasionally adding chunks of fish to the chum slick. When the shark picks up the bait and starts swimming, line should be free spooled before the hook is set. After a brief run, the hook should be set three or four times. Extreme care should be taken when the fish is ready to be landed. Once gaffed, a shark is capable of wrenching the gaff from the angler’s grip or bending it out of shape. Never attempt to boat a shark prematurely as such a move could result in a lost fish, destroyed tackle or possibly severe damage to the boat or severe injury to the angler before the fish is subdued. It is best for the novice fisherman to be accompanied by an experienced angler until he learns at least the basics of handling sharks.

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