WikiCatch
Bull shark

Bull shark

Carcharhinus leucas

Family
Carcharhinidae
Max Length
399 cm
Max Weight
316.5 kg
IUCN Status
VU
Water Type
saltwater, freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
319

Overview

The bull shark, also known as the Zambezi shark in Africa and Lake Nicaragua shark in Nicaragua, is a species of requiem shark commonly found worldwide in warm, shallow waters along coasts and in rivers. It is known for its aggressive nature, and presence mainly in warm, shallow brackish and freshwater systems including estuaries and (usually) lower reaches of rivers. Their aggressive nature has led to ongoing shark-culling efforts near beaches to protect beachgoers, which is one of the causes of bull shark populations continuing to decrease. Bull sharks are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Mullet

    Effective live bait, especially around inlets.

  • Bluefish

    Chunked or live, tough and oily.

  • Ladyfish

    A lively, smaller baitfish bull sharks love.

  • Eel

    Hardy live bait, good for bottom fishing.

  • Jack Crevalle

    Large, oily, attracts big sharks.

Artificial Lures

  • Rapala X-Rap Magnum 20Trolling Lure

    Troll at various depths near structure.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Hydro Minnow LCCrankbait

    Durable, cast or troll, use strong hardware.

    Buy
  • DOA CAL Airhead 5.5"Soft Plastic

    Rig weedless to fish heavy cover.

    Buy
  • SpoonSpoon

    Heavy spoon to reach deeper water.

    Buy
  • Got-cha E-Series PlugPlug

    Cast and retrieve quickly, excellent for schooling fish.

    Buy

Techniques

Use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as bull sharks have very sharp teeth and powerful jaws.

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Where to Find Bull shark

Florida, United States60 spotsQueensland, Australia45 spotsLouisiana, United States44 spotsAlabama, United States17 spotsTexas, United States14 spotsSouth Carolina, United States14 spotsGeorgia, United States13 spotsVirginia, United States10 spotsNew South Wales, Australia9 spotsMississippi, United States7 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Bull shark?+

Popular baits for Bull shark include Mullet, Bluefish, Ladyfish, Eel, Jack Crevalle. Tip: Use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs, as bull sharks have very sharp teeth and powerful jaws.

Where can I catch Bull shark?+

Bull shark can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Queensland, Australia; Louisiana, United States. WikiCatch lists 319 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Bull shark get?+

Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) can reach up to 399.288 cm in length and 316.5 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is VU.

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