Charlotte Harbor
Bull sharks and blacktips patrol the deeper channels and flats of Charlotte Harbor year-round.
Southwest Florida target species
Shark Fishing
Heart-pounding shark fishing in the shallow flats and nearshore waters of Southwest Florida — an adventure for the whole family.
Common Species
Bull, Blacktip
Average Size
50–200 lbs
Best Season
Year-Round
Typical Depth
3–30 ft
About Shark Fishing in SWFL
Southwest Florida offers exceptional shark fishing in both inshore and nearshore waters. Bull sharks, blacktip sharks, nurse sharks, and bonnethead sharks are commonly encountered throughout Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf.
Shark fishing is one of the most exciting experiences available on a charter trip — the raw power and speed of these apex predators makes for an unforgettable fight. All sharks are released unharmed.
Where We Fish for Sharks
Nearshore Gulf
Nearshore reefs and sandy bottom areas hold large concentrations of sharks, especially in summer.
Boca Grande Pass
The deep pass is a highway for sharks — bull sharks and large blacktips are common here.
Fishing Techniques
Chumming
A chum slick draws sharks from a wide area and keeps them in the strike zone.
Live Bait
Large live baits like ladyfish, mullet, and stingrays are top producers for big sharks.
Cut Bait
Fresh-cut fish on the bottom or suspended under a float is a reliable shark technique.
Sight Casting
Spot sharks on the flats and cast directly to them for an exciting visual presentation.
Best Times to Fish
Jan
Good
Feb
Good
Mar
Good
Apr
Peak
May
Peak
Jun
Peak
Jul
Peak
Aug
Peak
Sep
Peak
Oct
Good
Nov
Good
Dec
Good
Captain's Tips
Heavy Wire Leader
Always use heavy wire or cable leader for sharks — their teeth will cut through monofilament instantly.
Catch & Release
We practice responsible catch-and-release for all sharks. Proper handling ensures their survival.
Great for Families
Shark fishing is exciting for all ages. Kids especially love the thrill of battling these powerful fish.
Book Your Shark Fishing Charter
Experience the thrill of shark fishing in Southwest Florida with Captain Dylan — an adventure the whole family will remember.
More Southwest Florida Fishing Locations
Boca GrandeTarpon Capital of the World — Boca Grande Pass
Charlotte Harbor700 sq mi of world-class inshore fishing
Punta GordaHeart of Charlotte Harbor — snook, redfish & tarpon
Port CharlotteProductive flats and backcountry creeks
EnglewoodLemon Bay and the Stump Pass area
Pine Island SoundRemote flats and mangrove backcountry
Lemon BayShallow grass flats between Englewood and Placida
Cape HazeOyster bars and flats at the mouth of Charlotte Harbor
Gasparilla IslandHome of Boca Grande and the legendary Pass
Explore SWFL Fishing Charters
Boca Grande Fishing ChartersTarpon, snook & redfish at the world-famous Boca Grande Pass
Boca Grande Tarpon FishingChase giant Silver Kings in the world's best tarpon fishery
Charlotte Harbor Fishing ChartersPunta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Boca Grande & Placida — 700 sq mi of fishable water
Placida Fishing ChartersPlacida Harbor, Gasparilla Sound & the flats surrounding Gasparilla Island
Punta Gorda Fishing ChartersSnook, redfish & tarpon in the heart of Charlotte Harbor
Gasparilla Island Fishing ChartersHome of Boca Grande Pass — the Tarpon Capital of the World
Tarpon Fishing ChartersSouthwest Florida's premier tarpon guide — Boca Grande Pass & Charlotte Harbor
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 Matt10+ years experience, USCG licensed
The Boat23 ft Hanson, fully rigged for inshore fishing
Book a CharterCall 941-623-5673 or send a booking inquiry
Fishing ResourcesTide charts, FWC regulations, marine weather & local tips