As the waters around Hilton Head Island begin to warm in spring, a wide variety of shark species return to the Lowcountry—and among them is the sleek, fast, and often-overlooked fine tooth shark. Known for their agility and smooth fight on light tackle, these sharks are a springtime favorite on our Hilton Head fishing charters, especially for families and anglers looking for a fun, approachable shark fishing experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Hilton Head and want to learn more about this unique species, we’ve put together a guide covering how to identify fine tooth sharks, where to find them, how they behave, and—most importantly—how to catch one.
What Is a Fine Tooth Shark?
The fine tooth shark (Carcharhinus isodon) is a medium-sized shark species commonly found in warm, shallow coastal waters from the Carolinas down through the Gulf of Mexico. While not as famous as blacktips or bull sharks, they’re a thrilling catch—fast, energetic, and perfect for light tackle battles.
Identification Tips:
Size: Typically ranges from 3 to 4.5 feet long
Color: Gray to bluish-gray on the back with a white underside
Fins: No prominent black markings (unlike blacktip sharks)
Teeth: Fine, narrow teeth suited for small prey
Snout: Slender and pointed
Their subtle appearance makes them easy to confuse with other small sharks, but our expert captains can quickly identify them and share fascinating facts during your trip.
When and Where to Find Fine Tooth Sharks in Hilton Head
April through early summer is prime time for catching fine tooth sharks in Hilton Head. As water temperatures rise and baitfish return to the marshes and estuaries, these sharks move in to feed and spawn.
Best Locations for Targeting Fine Tooth Sharks:
Inshore tidal creeks and estuaries
Shallow flats near marsh edges
Creek mouths with strong tidal flow
Nearshore bars and sand flats on outgoing tides
Fine tooth sharks prefer warm, shallow waters with plenty of bait—and our captains know exactly where to find them throughout the season.
Behavior: What to Expect from a Fine Tooth Shark
Don’t let their modest size fool you—fine tooth sharks are fierce fighters, especially on lighter tackle. They’re fast swimmers and can put on a strong showing with multiple runs and sudden bursts of energy.
Behavioral Insights:
Often travel in small schools, leading to multiple catches in one area
Feed on small fish, shrimp, and squid
Typically strike aggressively once bait is detected
Prefer warmer, quiet waters with abundant bait
These characteristics make them perfect for a family-friendly shark fishing charter—they’re exciting, safe to handle under guidance, and relatively easy to catch.
How to Catch a Fine Tooth Shark: Gear, Bait & Tactics
We provide all gear and tackle needed for targeting fine tooth sharks on our charters, but if you’re curious about the setup, here’s what we use.
Tackle Setup:
Medium spinning or light conventional rods
20–30 lb braided main line
12–18" steel leader with circle hook
Size 3/0 to 5/0 circle hooks for safe catch and release
Best Baits:
Cut mullet
Squid strips
Menhaden or bunker
Shrimp for bycatch like black drum or bonnethead sharks
Pro Tips:
Fish around moving tides, especially incoming and early outgoing
Let the shark take the bait and set the hook with a firm lift
Keep the line tight and be ready for sudden runs
With the guidance of our experienced captains, even first-time anglers can land one of these feisty sharks and get a great photo before release.
Why Fine Tooth Sharks Are Great for Families and Beginners
Fine tooth sharks are ideal for kids, beginners, and anyone looking to enjoy a unique, hands-on experience with one of the ocean’s most fascinating predators.
Why Guests Love Targeting Fine Tooth Sharks:
Manageable size and great fight
Frequent action and multiple hook-ups
Safe to catch and release under expert supervision
Learn about local marine life in a fun, engaging way
Check out our Family Fishing Charters and Shark Fishing Trips for more ways to customize your adventure.
Add Variety: Mix in Redfish, Trout, or Black Drum
Many of our Hilton Head fishing charters blend shark fishing with inshore favorites like redfish, speckled trout, and black drum. Depending on the tide and your group’s interest, we can tailor your trip to include a mix of species for a full day of action.
Explore all options:
Inshore Fishing Charters
Deep Sea Fishing Adventures
Custom Combo Trips
Book Your Fine Tooth Shark Fishing Trip Today
April through early summer is the best time to catch fine tooth sharks in Hilton Head—and our local captains are ready to guide you through every step of the experience. Whether you're chasing your first shark or introducing your kids to the thrill of fishing, these sleek predators offer just the right mix of action and accessibility.
Ready for a fishing adventure in Hilton Head? Call us at 843-806-2424 or submit an inquiry through our website to book your charter today. Don’t wait, unforgettable experiences await!
