Carcharhinus leucas (Bull Shark)
Carcharias taurus (Sand Tiger Shark)
Galeocerdo cuvier (Tiger Shark)
Ginglymostoma cirratum (Nurse Shark)
Negaprion brevirostris (Lemon Shark)
Sphyrnidae (Hammerhead Sharks)
Some of the biggest, toughest sharks in the Atlantic Ocean make their home in the waters off the Hilton Head coast. If you’re looking for the ultimate offshore fishing challenge, nothing beats chasing these monster sharks and the thrill of landing one.
Monster sharks are most abundant nearshore from May through September, when there is less rainfall and nearshore salinity (amount of salt in the water) is highest. They can be found offshore, where salinity is less affected by rainfall, year-round.
Though most Monster Sharks are technically edible, they are catch and release only per South Carolina law. Only smaller sharks, such as Bonnetheads and Blacktips, may be kept.
Due to their size, Monster Sharks don’t usually swim far into inshore waters. You usually have to fish deeper waters of the inshore sound. But you can also find them in nearshore waters in the summer months where there isn’t too much human activity to scare off their prey.
Approach: The easiest way to attract Monster Sharks is by first chumming - throwing fish parts, or “chum,” into the water. Then cast in your line and get ready for the fight of your life!
Tackle: While it is possible to catch pretty big sharks on light tackle, you’ll need deep sea fishing gear when Monster Shark fishing.
All Monster Sharks, typically above the 4.5-ft. length limit, are catch and release only.
