
Common thresher
Alopias vulpinus
Overview
The common thresher, also known as Atlantic thresher, is the largest species of thresher shark, family Alopiidae, reaching some 6 m (20 ft) in length. About half of its length consists of the elongated upper lobe of its caudal fin. With a streamlined body, short pointed snout, and modestly sized eyes, the common thresher resembles the pelagic thresher. It can be distinguished from the latter species by the white of its belly extending in a band over the bases of its pectoral fins. The common thresher is distributed worldwide in tropical and temperate waters, though it prefers cooler temperatures. It can be found both close to shore and in the open ocean, from the surface to a depth of 550 m (1,800 ft). It is seasonally migratory and spends summers at lower latitudes.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Mackerel
A very oily baitfish that thresher sharks love.
- Sardines
Another oily baitfish, great for chumming too.
- Anchovies
Small, readily available, and effective in chum slicks.
- Squid
Works well either whole or as strips.
- Bonito
A larger, chunkier bait for bigger threshers.
Artificial Lures
- Yo-Zuri Hydro Minnow LC 165mmTrolling LureBuy
Troll at moderate speeds near bait schools.
- Shimano Butterfly Flat-Fall Jig 160gJigBuy
Drop near bait schools, jig aggressively.
- Nomad DTX Minnow 200Trolling LureBuy
Excellent for high-speed trolling.
- Daiwa Salt Pro Minnow 120Trolling LureBuy
Versatile lure that can be trolled or casted
- Halco Laser Pro 190Trolling LureBuy
A proven big-game lure for threshers.
Techniques
Drift live baits near offshore pinnacles or along edges where baitfish congregate, using a chum slick to attract the sharks.
As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.
Where to Find Common thresher
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Common thresher?+
Popular baits for Common thresher include Mackerel, Sardines, Anchovies, Squid, Bonito. Tip: Drift live baits near offshore pinnacles or along edges where baitfish congregate, using a chum slick to attract the sharks.
Where can I catch Common thresher?+
Common thresher can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include New York, United States; Tasmania, Australia; Maine, United States. WikiCatch lists 15 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Common thresher get?+
Common thresher (Alopias vulpinus) can reach up to 573.000002 cm in length and 348 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is VU.
Get WikiCatch on iPhone
360,000+ fishing spots, AI fish ID, weather & solunar — free.
Download on the App Store