Boca Grande Pass
Strong tide and concentrated bait make the pass a prime area for traveling and feeding sharks.
Southwest Florida target species
Shark Fishing in Southwest Florida
Bull sharks, blacktip, spinner, and nurse sharks — thrilling action on the water
Average size
3–7 feet
Record size
Bull sharks 10+ feet
Best season
Spring–fall
Top location
Boca Grande Pass
Meet Southwest Florida's sharks
Shark fishing brings a different kind of energy to a Southwest Florida charter. Bull sharks, blacktip sharks, spinner sharks, and nurse sharks all use local coastal water, providing fast runs, aerial action, and long, determined fights.
Boca Grande Pass, the nearshore Gulf, and the mouth of Charlotte Harbor are natural travel and feeding zones. Current, bait, water clarity, and season all influence which species are most likely to be encountered.
Most sharks caught on a local trip run 3 to 7 feet, though large bull sharks can grow beyond 10 feet. Captain Matt uses appropriate heavy leaders and careful boat-side handling to keep the fish and anglers safe.
Best locations in Southwest Florida
Nearshore Gulf waters
Nearshore structure and open water bait schools can draw blacktips, spinners, and larger sharks.
Charlotte Harbor mouth
The meeting point of harbor and Gulf water offers current lines and forage that attract predators.
Techniques & tackle Captain Matt uses
Large cut baits
Substantial natural baits create a scent trail that draws sharks to the spread.
Chunk bait
Used to establish a scent trail while a larger bait waits in a likely travel lane.
Heavy leaders
Abrasion-resistant terminal tackle is essential around teeth, rough skin, and long runs.
Shark season calendar
Jan
Slow
Feb
Slow
Mar
Good
Apr
Peak
May
Peak
Jun
Peak
Jul
Peak
Aug
Peak
Sep
Good
Oct
Good
Nov
Slow
Dec
Slow
Captain's shark tips
Give the fish a moment
Let a shark take and turn with the bait before setting the hook, following Captain Matt's cue.
Keep the pressure steady
Use smooth, consistent pressure and avoid sudden slack line during fast direction changes.
Follow boat-side instructions
Sharks are powerful animals; Captain Matt will guide each angler through safe handling and release.
Ready for a Southwest Florida shark fight?
Book a shark charter with Captain Matt in Boca Grande and Charlotte Harbor.
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Trips & PricingInshore, tarpon & nearshore packages from $600
Service AreasBoca Grande, Charlotte Harbor & 7 more locations
Photo GalleryReal catches from the flats of Southwest Florida
Customer Reviews5-star reviews from happy anglers
About Captain Matt20+ years experience, USCG licensed
The Boat23 ft Hanson, fully rigged for inshore fishing
Book a CharterCall 941-623-5673 or send a booking inquiry