These sharks are the ocean’s top apex predator. While orcas might argue strongly for top billing, it’s the great white that holds the throne.
Being as famous as they are, these creatures go by many names such as white death, white shark, and white pointer.
They are steeped in ancient myth and legend and have grown to become an icon of popular culture.
Thanks, Jaws. Steven Speilberg has a lot to answer for here…
Plenty of people formed their impressions about these creatures by watching his famous 1970’s horror movie.
Did you? Be honest…
Introduction: Terrifying Presence
Rightly or wrongly, these magnificent creatures inspire our fear and terrors…
Even for those of us that have never swam in an ocean.
Maybe that’s why you don’t swim in the ocean.
But…
Truth is, great whites rarely attack people (just under 400 in recorded history).
Not that many compared to what most people think…
That considered, and despite all that science has taught us about them, these creatures are still a swimming horror movie for many of us.
Is it any wonder anglers want to search for this guy? He’s asking to be targeted, right?
Maybe…
Only the very determined game anglers willingly pit their skills against Jaws.
Watch one of the largest white sharks captured on video in the clip below.
In today’s article, we’ll look into great white shark fishing…
We’ll cover techniques, current regulations in the US, as well as some great whites facts, figures, truths, and myths.
Let’s go fishing for great whites!
Distribution & Breeding
Scientists and marine biologists have learned plenty over the last several decades.
However…
They will be the first to admit that there is still so much they don’t know.
Part of the reason that white sharks hold on to much of their mystery is that they inhabit most of the ocean.
Yep. they might be big…
But it can be pretty hard to search for them or track them down because they swim huge distances.
I know you’re rearing to go and want to learn how to catch sharks right now…
It’s important to get to know them first…
The distribution of great whites is more or less global.
They inhabit the temperate and subtropical waters, avoiding the extreme warmth and extreme cold.
They like to maintain their preferred body temp of around 14 degrees celsius.
They inhabit the temperate and subtropical waters, avoiding the extreme warmth and extreme cold…
They are found as far north as Alaska and the Bearing Straight across to Russian water.
They’re as far south as the southern tip of Argentina, beyond the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
Breeding Grounds
Intensive research and record-keeping have identified key breeding grounds which include…
The southern water of South Africa and south of Cape Horn, and the entire North African coastline from Morocco to the Suez canal.
The coast of Portugal and Spain are also breeding water spots.
The entire east and west coasts of the USA are breeding zones for these sharks…
Stretching into southeastern Canada, as are the waters of Japan and the East China sea.
All New Zealand waters are considered important white shark breeding zones.
As are the majority of the Australian waters, with the exception being the northernmost Australian tropics, from the central north of Western Australia to the central north of Queensland.
Breeding
Part of the reason great whites are under threat is that they are considered slow breeders…
Males reach breeding age between the ages of 8 and 10 years old.
Females develop slower and reach maturation at 12 to 18 years.
Females can deliver up to 10 pups, with observed instances of up to 17 pups.
It is estimated that they only breed every 2 to 3 years.
Scientists and researchers believe that these creatures’ gestation period is anywhere from 12 to 18 months.
Diet & Hunting
Despite the commonly held myth…
Great whites don’t include people as part of their diet.
Seals and sea lions are a critical part of a great whites diet. They’re pretty keen on stingrays too.
You don’t need to worry!
They’re preference is for eating marine life, not us…
Other regular menu items also include octopus, sea birds, sharks, and dolphins as well as dead whales.
They’re opportunistic feeders that will take a bite at nearly anything. There have even been reports of living fossils having shark bite marks
For them, the ocean’s just one big buffet breakfast…or dinner…maybe lunch. Drive thru?
their attacks on humans are more or less inquiries and mistaken identity…
In fact, it’s suggested that their attacks on humans are more or less inquiries and mistaken identity, a bit of a taste test. Apparently, we’re not so tasty to them but surfers look a lot like seals.
From Visually.
Not Such Picky Eaters
Great whites have been caught with all sorts of things inside their stomachs…
Everything from tin cans to vehicle license plates have found their way onto menus of these sharks.
Great whites have been caught with all sorts of things inside their stomachs…
Regardless of the crazy things found in their guts, great whites are supreme hunters…
They can detect very small amounts of blood from up to 3 miles away.
They hunt with electroreception. This is a physical attribute that allows them to detect very small electric currents emanated by living creatures.
This is brilliant for hunting in dark and murky water…
It is this system that allows them to navigate by using the earth’s electromagnetic field too.
Lifespan, Size, & Speed
How big is a great white shark?
On average, males measure between 11 to 13 feet, where females are a little larger at 15 to 16 feet.
Great whites can grow as large as 20 feet long or more.
Just thinking of their sheer size can be intimidating.
But don’t worry…
Just stick around, with this guide you’ll learn how to properly handle them.
Let’s focus on learning about great whites first…
Lifespan
It is estimated that these creatures can live as long as 70 years.
Their closest relative is believed to be the Mako shark, descending from the ancient Mako millions of years ago. The Mako too is a formidable predator.
DID YOU KNOW?
Great whites were originally thought to have descended from the prehistoric Megalodon. But recent science has placed significant doubt on this long-held theory..
There seem to be anatomical discrepancies, such as differing teeth.
It’s raised plenty of new questions about their ancestral connection.
How Big Can They Grow?
The discovery of the largest great white was only recently recorded…
A great white measuring over 20 feet with an estimated weight of 2.5 tons was photographed off Oahu, Hawaii. They’re no whale shark but that’s still a pretty massive size all things considered.
Propelling themselves with their powerful tails, they are capable of remarkable turns of speed, deadly against their prey.
Great whites move at cruising speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. They engage their prey with speed bursts up to 35 miles per hour…
Great whites move at cruising speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
They engage their prey with speed bursts up to 35 miles per hour.
Their jaws actually thrust outwards as they attack.
Think about it. That’s 300 serrated, triangular teeth coming at you with tonnes of force, at 35 miles an hour!
Well…they’re not coming at you…
Just their prey. Needless to say, these guys are incredible hunters.
Makes casting lines at them seem kinda pointless…futile even.
But fun, yes?
Hold your horses – there’s a catch…
These guys are protected by tough international laws.
Conservation: Laws That Protect Great Whites
It is estimated that humans kill up to two 100 million sharks of all species per year.
This is a staggering number in anyone’s language.
These sharks are classed as vulnerable.
International agreements have been passed prohibiting all signatories (that’s us) from commercial and recreational great white shark fishing.
You might be wondering if it’s still a good idea to catch these creatures…
Often, great whites are killed in commercial nets; collateral damage from the fishing industry.
They’ve also been targeted by recreational anglers for decades.
Threats to Great Whites
Death from commercial bycatch, as well as pollution and loss of great white sharks’ habitat, have been devastating for these slow breeding species.
The nets that protect us when we swim at the beach are also responsible for the death of significant numbers of juvenile great whites.
It would appear that the conservation accords do work.
In places where protections exist, populations have stabilized and even increased.
But it’s not just the white shark that needs protection. Other aquatic species like the Mola Mola and Barreleye need protection too.
remaining great whites are astonishingly low. It’s estimated there are 3000 to 5000 sharks globally…
Regardless of any claimed improvements, It could be said that remaining great whites are astonishingly low…
It’s estimated there are 3000 to 5000 sharks globally. Considering the size of the ocean, this number seems dangerously low.
DID YOU KNOW?
Orcas and sharks are known to attack great whites, but it is human actions that pose the greatest threat to them
Why Catch a Great White in the First Place?
Great whites have traditionally been a trophy fish for game anglers around the world.
Once caught, measured and weighed, the jaws are kept as a record of a grueling and lengthy fight. Mounting fish is also a great way to preserve the memory of catching a trophy fish.
It could be said that great whites are angling’s most formidable challenge…
It could be said that great whites are angling’s most formidable challenge…
Catching the ocean’s apex predator with rod and reel is the ultimate achievement in angling.
The biggest great white ever caught weighed in at 3,427-pounds.
The record has stood since 1986 and remains to this day.
Incidentally, it is also the largest catch of any kind with rod and reel.
One might argue that catching great whites now, based on present populations, is nothing short of crazy.
The numbers are just too low, making it difficult just to search for them.
Can You Catch Great White Sharks Legally?
In fact, it is possible to catch great whites legally, but special permits have to be provided, and the reason for the hunt is not sport and trophy hunting, but research.
Understanding great whites are critical for their conservation…
Understanding great whites are critical for their conservation…
We’re learning of the potential devastation our oceans will likely face if they lose the apex predator.
There are also other collaborative scientific studies in a host of other disciplines outside of marine conservation.
Great whites are caught by anglers in order to further research.
NOTE
The anglers that target and catch these sharks are subject to strict rules, using catch and release methods that are second to none. The welfare of the shark is paramount.
Shark Fishing Gear
What equipment do you need to catch a great white shark?
That’s an easy question…
To catch these sharks, shark anglers need the strongest game rod and reel available on the market…and then some!
There are plenty of tricks to catching sharks depending on the target and likely size.
However…
When chasing white sharks, the hope is to find the biggest there is, hence rigging accordingly.
Let’s get you prepared…
Most big sharks are targeted offshore using a boat; however, if you don’t plan on using a boat, the beach is another common launch pad for a big shark hunt.
NOTE
The rigs for the biggest targets are generally the same, beach or boat. Differences will usually come down to personal preference and experience.
Getting Ready
Before heading out to search for these creatures, here is a typical equipment list for great whites hunters.
All equipment is for example only, we’re not endorsing brands here.
It’s important to note that this is just one basic approach…
There are many variations on this theme, particularly when it comes to leader lengths, and wire, leader, and swivel breaking strains.
Getting equipped…
The Reel
The Shimano Tiagra 130A. It has 100 pounds of maximum drag and holds 3350 yards of 150-pound braid.
It has 6 bearings with a 2-speed ratio designed for cranking very heavy fish. There are two lugs to connect the reel to your body harness. Not much change out of $2000.00.
The Rod
Strap the Tiagra 130A to a Shimano Tiagra Hyper game rod. It is rated to a whopping 60kg.
With a length of 7’6″, it’s a longer game rod with a full complement of roller guides.
The rod is designed for game fishing from a game chair, but may be handled from a beach while standing, but only with the physical assistance of another experienced (and strong) game angler.
Baits
The best bait will be a tuna or mackerel head cut a few inches past the gills.
Tuna is great because they are very oily and smells fantastic, to a shark.
Freshly caught and still bleeding is ideal.
Check out this showing how to rig bait for sharks.
Another great bait, particularly for the beach, is a whole stingray…
A stingray is more difficult to bait up than a fish, but a very effective bait, nonetheless.
Fresh and local is the best approach, and the bait size must suit the hook.
A bait weighing in around five-pound is all that is needed to attract the biggest sharks.
Variation of Bait
Bigger isn’t always better with shark baits…
The most important thing is that the bait fits the hook.
Presentation isn’t the issue here, sharks don’t seem to bother about a big hook protruding from their dinner.
NOTE
The critical thing is to have the hook point and barb free of the bait flesh. A hook lost in bait flesh is a common reason strikes fail to become hook-ups.
Shark Fishing Rig
Mono or braid. It’s a personal choice…
Mono has the distinct advantage of having the stretch to absorb violent head shakes of massive sharks.
Additionally, mono has better abrasion resistance.
The trade-off is that you can’t fit anywhere near as much mono as braid and a lot of line is needed…
Even an average size shark can pull off 1000 yards of line at max drag before it stops for a rest.
Another consideration is…
3000 plus yards of braid is going to cost a packet–like hundreds of dollars.
Cost is usually not an issue for those seeking to catch these creatures.
RECOMMENDATION
Whether mono or braid is chosen, most choose around the 150-pound breaking strain. The Tiagra will eat 1000’s of yards of it. As will the shark.
The Wire Trace
The wire connects directly to the mono/ fluoro leader and the hook.
Shark anglers generally prefer a single strand wire up to 400 pounds up to 6 feet long.
It’s thicker than multi-strand and better equipped to handle horror movie style teeth.
If a shark is hooked, a single strand won’t last long and will be one use only…
Sharks completely wreck single strand wire…
A single strand wire is the cheapest metal leader by far anyway. Hang the expense, the battle is worth every dime.
Leader
The leader, mono or fluoro, connects the wire trace to the mainline.
As a rule of thumb, when fishing 400-pound wire, fish 400-pound leader is used.
Using a 400-pound leader, as it lacks suppleness and flexibility, requires good knot skills or confidence with crimping.
RECOMMENDATION
Another option is dropping down to 300-pound leader. The knots are much easier to tie and make anglers feel more confident.
The Hook
Hook size and type will depend to a certain degree on the bait chosen…
Circle hooks are recommended for the shark’s welfare but a J hook will give better baiting flexibility and a better chance at hook-up.
A 3X strong 16/0 to 20/0 hook size is recommended.
Keep in mind, J hooks and multi-hook rigs can be deadly on the shark that must be released.
Remember, we’re doing our best to look after these guys.
TIP
Wise anglers are rarely tempted to use narrow gauge hooks. Sharks laugh at weak hooks…like really.
Swivels
300-pound ball bearing swivels are more expensive, but well up to the task. A pack will cost around $20.
Shark Hook Remover
White sharks are catch and release only…
Anglers looking to catch these creatures should carry a shark hook remover, or, a set of long handles bolt cutters for cutting the hook.
Remember, 3X hooks are a heavy gauge wire.
Pliers or side cutters are useless for heavy gauge hooks…
Not only are they inadequate for cutting, they have a short grip too – Would you stick your hand inside a great white’s mouth?
When & Where: Finding Great Whites
It could be said that this is the most critical aspect of having a shot at catching these creatures…
Time and location are very much regional issues.
Boat anglers should research the area they intend to fish, getting a strong understanding of migration habits.
Researching local information about the shark is critical.
Often, boat anglers will check fishing clubs, surf lifesaving clubs, tackle shops and fishing charter operators, as well as consulting with marine scientists.
These people are the most likely to have firsthand experience of where and when to search for white sharks.
Here are some great tips to help you find them…
Finding Great Whites
white sharks will be found all year round…
It should be noted that white sharks will be found all year round. Boat anglers can use huge amounts of chum to drum up sharks quite easily.
The problem is, you will attract species other than white sharks too.
This is where local knowledge pays off…
Every location has species-specific information that should be sought locally.
It’s their tips that help boat anglers catch these species and avoid by-catch.
One thing is certain. Such is their distribution, the place you are catching fish now is very likely a great white shark habitat…
The only reason you’ve not hooked one is that you’ve not been looking for them.
You have to use the right gear at the right time, right place and target them.
Catch and Release
The law prohibits targeting these creatures…
It is understood, however, that these creatures are often caught while hunting other species.
In such cases, it’s critical you practice catch and release.
If you’ve got tags on board, it’s good practice to tag the shark and submit the information to fisheries for research.
Proper Handling
Ensure that every effort is made to protect the well-being of the shark.
Having the correct tools for handling and removing hooks is critical.
Use circle hooks to ensure, as best possible, the shark’s lip is hooked. You want to avoid the potential of a deadly gut hook-up or gill hook-up.
These fish must not be landed. They may not be removed from the water, hauled on deck or up the beach.
NOTE
Remember, there are as few as 3000 of these creatures left in our oceans.
The Great White Wrap Up
There probably isn’t a game fish angler that wouldn’t like to test their fishing metal up against the power of these creatures.
Currently, this option isn’t really available…
The unfortunate reason behind this is our lack of marine care and conservation.
There simply aren’t enough of these creatures left in the ocean to catch them for sport.
Myth and ancient cultures have bestowed god-like status on these sharks.
Popular culture has done it’s best to demonize it. Maybe this species monster status underpins our lack of responsibility toward its conservation.
There’s now a growing understanding among fishermen…
If we’re ever going to be able to legally catch this species again, we’re going to have to care for them and their habitat.
Conservation
When the time comes that their numbers have grown, and these sharks are removed from the vulnerable list, we are ready with rod and reel.
Catching these creatures requires experience, phenomenal strength, and stamina.
Even with the best gear available, the odds are stacked way against you.
This is why it is the toughest of angling tests. It’s the oceans apex hunter, it’s massive, and with a 20/0 in its mouth, it’s very angry too.
Overcome Challenges
Good fishermen want to beat the slim odds of a battle with these sharks.
Like those anglers…
We can only hope these creatures last and have a fighting chance against the disastrous odds it’s now facing.
Help spread shark conservation awareness while also providing a good read to your buddies. If you can’t get enough of shark info, go read our hammerhead shark fishing guide next
If you found the article helpful, feel free to share it!
Great whites. Live and breed to fight another day.
Thanks for reading my article about great white shark fishing. If you enjoyed it, you might want to check out my other articles such as the mysterious anglerfish or tips on how to catch flounder. All the info you need is right here.
