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Caught an Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Inshore in Milton
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Fishing in Milton, FL
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The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae) is a member of the requiem shark family that inhabits the warm coastal waters of the Western Atlantic. These sharks are known for their streamlined bodies and distinctive pointed snout, making them easily recognizable to anglers in Milton's waters. - Typically measures between 39-48 inches in length - Weighs approximately 7-9 pounds when fully grown - Prefers shallow, warm water environments - Known for powerful runs that can quickly strip fishing reels
Fishing Charter by Captain Jamie Hoover in August
Meet your Captain Jamie Hoover
- Emerald Coast Fishing Charters At Its Best!
Summary
Experience the thrill of inshore fishing in Milton, FL with Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters. Our Saturday June fishing charter delivered an exciting day on the water targeting Spotted Weakfish, Redfish, and the powerful Atlantic Sharpnose Shark. We employed various techniques from jigging to fly fishing around the productive waters of Garcon Point. Despite some afternoon rain in the forecast, we managed perfect timing to hook into multiple quality fish including an impressive Atlantic Sharpnose Shark that gave one angler the fight of their life. Whether you're an experienced angler looking for a challenging catch or a family seeking a memorable day on the water, our inshore fishing charters provide the perfect mix of action and scenery in the beautiful Florida Panhandle.
Fishing Charter with Jamie Hoover – Rates & Booking
Captain Jamie Hoover of Addicted to Scales & Tail Charters offers Saturday June inshore fishing trips that showcase the best of Milton's waterways. Our 4-hour inshore day trips provide the perfect balance of fishing action and time on the water, with expert guidance to put you on quality fish. All necessary fishing equipment, licenses, and ice for your catch are included. We welcome anglers of all experience levels – from beginners looking to learn the basics to experienced fishermen seeking their next trophy catch.
The 4-Hour Trip – Inshore (Day) package is ideal for both families and serious anglers who want to experience the diverse inshore fishing Milton has to offer. Our modern, well-maintained fishing boat accommodates up to 4 anglers comfortably, with safety equipment and fish-finding technology to maximize your chances of success. Morning trips typically depart around 7:00 AM, while afternoon trips leave at 1:00 PM, subject to tides and weather conditions.
Highlights of 4 Hour Trip – Inshore (Day)
Our inshore fishing trips in Milton focus on productive fishing grounds around Garcon Point, where a variety of gamefish species thrive. You'll have opportunities to catch Spotted Weakfish and Redfish using multiple techniques, from light tackle to fly fishing. The waters in this area feature diverse structure that holds fish year-round, making each trip unique and exciting.
One of the major highlights is the opportunity to hook into powerful Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks, especially during summer months. These hard-fighting predators provide an unforgettable battle on appropriate tackle, often making screaming runs that test both equipment and angler. Captain Jamie's extensive local knowledge ensures you'll be fishing the most productive spots based on seasonal patterns, tides, and weather conditions for a memorable day on the water.
Local Species Insights: Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark inhabits the shallow, warm waters around Milton, particularly during summer months. These sharks are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs that can quickly strip a reel of line. When targeting them, we typically use heavier tackle and fish areas where bait concentrations are high, such as channel edges, deeper holes, and structure that creates current breaks.
During June, these sharks become more prevalent in our local waters as water temperatures rise, making it an excellent time to target them. While they're not the largest shark species, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks in the 39-48 inch range provide exceptional sport on appropriate tackle. Their fighting ability and stamina make them a favorite target for anglers seeking a challenging catch during our inshore charters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your day on the water, we recommend bringing sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), weather-appropriate clothing, non-marking shoes, and a camera to document your catch. Our boat is equipped with a cooler with ice, and bottled water is provided. Feel free to bring additional snacks or beverages for your trip.
We practice responsible catch-and-release for most species, particularly sharks, but can clean and package keeper fish for you to take home. Morning trips typically offer calmer waters and active feeding periods, while afternoon trips may coincide with changing tides that trigger feeding activity. Our captain will contact you the day before to confirm weather conditions and meeting location details at our Milton, FL launch site.
Fishing in Pensacola: Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae) is a small but mighty member of the Carcharhinidae family, belonging to the order Carcharhiniformes. Recognizable by its distinctive pointed snout and streamlined body, this shark features a brownish to olive-gray coloration with characteristic white spots along its sides. In Milton waters this June, these sharks become particularly active as water temperatures rise to their preferred range.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Overview
This small coastal shark is one of the most common shark species in the Gulf of Mexico and western Atlantic Ocean. Despite its modest size compared to other sharks, the Atlantic Sharpnose is highly regarded by anglers for its aggressive fighting style and abundance in inshore and nearshore waters. They're often targeted during summer months when they move into shallower waters around Milton.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Habitat and Distribution
These sharks prefer shallow, warm waters typically less than 30 feet deep, though they can be found at depths up to 280 feet. They inhabit bays, estuaries, and coastal waters from New Brunswick, Canada to the Yucatan in Mexico, with particularly strong populations along the Florida Panhandle. Around Milton, they're commonly found near Garcon Point and other areas where baitfish concentrate.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Size and Weight
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks typically range from 39 to 48 inches in length, with weights between 7 and 9 pounds. Males generally reach maturity at around 32 inches, while females mature at approximately 33-35 inches. While not the largest shark species, their strength and speed make them feel much larger when hooked.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic feeders primarily consume small bony fishes like menhaden, mullet, and spot, but will also prey on shrimp, crabs, and smaller squid. They're most active during dawn and dusk, making these prime times for targeting them. Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks often hunt in small groups and can be quite aggressive when feeding, which makes them excellent sport fish.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Spawning Season
Reproduction occurs during the summer months in coastal waters. As a viviparous species, female Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks give birth to live young after a 10-11 month gestation period. Litters typically consist of 4-7 pups, each measuring about 12 inches at birth. In Florida waters, pupping often occurs from May through June, which contributes to their increased presence in Milton's waters during summer.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Fishing Techniques
When targeting these sharks in Milton waters, medium-heavy spinning or conventional tackle spooled with 20-30 pound test line works well. Fresh cut bait like mullet, menhaden, or bluefish produces the best results. A simple fish-finder rig with a 5/0 to 7/0 circle hook helps ensure proper hooksets without deep-hooking these sharks. In June, anglers around Milton find them near deeper channels adjacent to shallow flats, especially during moving tides when they actively feed on baitfish schools.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Is It Good to Eat?
While legal to harvest under appropriate regulations, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks are generally not considered prime table fare compared to other fish species. The meat has a firm texture but can have a stronger flavor that some find unappealing unless properly prepared. Most anglers practice catch and release with these sharks to help maintain healthy populations and for conservation purposes.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks?
A: Fresh cut mullet, menhaden, or bluefish chunks are top baits. Using oily fish creates a stronger scent trail that attracts these sharks from greater distances. Fresh is always better than frozen when available.
Q: Where can I find Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks near Milton?
A: Look for them around Garcon Point, channel edges, and areas with structure that creates current breaks. They prefer waters 5-20 feet deep during summer months and are often found where baitfish concentrate.
Q: Is Atlantic Sharpnose Shark good to eat?
A: While technically edible, they're not considered premium table fare. If harvested, the meat should be properly bled and iced immediately. Most anglers practice catch and release with these sharks for conservation purposes.
Q: When is the best time to catch Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks?
A: In Milton, the best time is during summer months (May through September) when water temperatures are warmest. Dawn and dusk provide peak feeding activity, and fishing during moving tides typically produces the best results.
Q: Are Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks dangerous?
A: They're generally not considered dangerous to humans due to their small size. However, they should still be handled with caution as they have sharp teeth and can inflict cuts if mishandled.
Q: What tackle should I use for Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks?
A: Medium-heavy spinning or conventional gear with 20-30 pound test line works well. Use a wire leader (12-18 inches) to prevent bite-offs and circle hooks to facilitate easier release and reduce deep hooking.
