Winter fishing in the Florida Keys can produce incredible action for sharks, king mackerel, sailfish, and many other species.
When cold fronts arrive, the shallow waters of Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico tend to cool faster than the deeper waters of the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, many fish move toward the warmer Atlantic reefs and Hawk Channel.
This seasonal movement can create some fantastic opportunities for catch-and-release shark fishing near Marathon.
Winter Shark Fishing Near Marathon
Without the cooler weather, many of these sharks would normally remain in Florida Bay. As water temperatures drop, they begin moving toward the warmer waters surrounding the Atlantic coral reefs and Hawk Channel.
Anglers may encounter several shark species during a winter fishing trip, including:
- Bull sharks
- Blacktip sharks
- Blacknose sharks
- Atlantic sharpnose sharks
- Hammerhead sharks
- Tiger sharks
Every trip is different, but the variety and size of the sharks found around the Middle Florida Keys can make for an unforgettable day on the water.
Bull Sharks Provide a Serious Fight
Bull sharks are among the largest and most powerful predators anglers may encounter around Marathon.
They sometimes become a nuisance while we are bottom fishing because they will try to eat the grouper and snapper we hook during a charter. When a bull shark takes an interest in your catch, the situation can quickly turn into an epic battle of angler versus shark.
Be prepared to tag-team the fight. Bull sharks are strong, stubborn, and rarely give up easily.
When targeting larger sharks, having a fighting chair aboard can be extremely helpful. Fighting one while standing may take an hour or longer, even when using 30- to 50-pound-class tackle.
Best Baits for Florida Keys Shark Fishing
Sharks are naturally attracted to oily, bloody bait.
When targeting them, we prefer to use fish that are less desirable for the dinner table, such as:
- Bonito
- Jack crevalle
- Other oily baitfish
These baits create plenty of scent in the water and can quickly attract nearby sharks.
Catch-and-Release Shark Fishing
We practice catch-and-release fishing for all sharks.
Circle hooks help place the hook in the corner of the shark’s mouth, making the fish easier to release. We also use hooks light enough to straighten when necessary, allowing us to remove the tackle or release the shark more efficiently.
Extra caution is essential when a shark reaches the surface. Even after a long fight, these animals remain powerful and unpredictable. A shark can damage equipment, bite the boat, or seriously injure someone who gets too close.
Always follow the captain’s instructions and allow the experienced crew to handle the shark at boatside.
Experience Florida Keys Shark Fishing
Cooler weather can bring outstanding shark fishing to the reefs and channels surrounding Marathon. Whether you connect with a blacktip, hammerhead, or hard-fighting bull shark, these powerful predators can create a fishing experience you will never forget.
For more information about shark fishing in the Florida Keys, call Sundance Sportfishing at (305) 699-8485.
Good luck on all your fishing adventures!
