Get ready to feel your heart race as you battle some of the ocean's top predators off the coast of St. Simons Island. This private 5-hour shark fishing trip isn't for the faint of heart - we're talking about reeling in monsters that can stretch up to 13 feet long. Whether you're a seasoned shark hunter or it's your first time targeting these apex predators, our crew at Reel Busy Shark Charters will make sure you're set up for an adrenaline-pumping day on the water. With top-notch gear and our local know-how, you'll be in prime position to test your mettle against bull sharks, threshers, and blacktips. It's just you, a friend, and the fight of a lifetime waiting out there.
Once we shove off from St. Simons, we'll head to some of our favorite shark hotspots. The beauty of this private trip is we can tailor it to your experience level. Newbies, don't sweat it - we'll walk you through everything from baiting hooks to proper fighting technique. For you old salts out there, we might try some more challenging spots or techniques to really put your skills to the test. Either way, be ready for some serious action. When a big shark takes the bait, you'll know it. These aren't your average fish - they'll give you a workout that'll have your arms feeling it for days. But man, that rush when you finally bring one boatside? Nothing quite like it. Just remember, it's catch and release out here. We respect these incredible animals and want to make sure they're around for future anglers to enjoy too.
Leave your lightweight bass gear at home, folks. We're talking heavy-duty stuff when it comes to shark fishing. We'll set you up with stout rods and reels spooled with hundreds of yards of high-test line. You'll need every bit of it when a big bull shark decides to make a run for it. Our terminal tackle is all business too - wire leaders and circle hooks to make sure those toothy critters don't bite through. We use a mix of live and cut bait, depending on what's working best that day. Sometimes it's a big chunk of bloody bonito, other times a live blue runner does the trick. Half the fun is figuring out what'll get those sharks fired up. And don't worry about bringing any fancy fishing clothes - just wear something comfortable you don't mind getting a bit fishy. Sun protection is key though, so don't forget the hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Bull Sharks are the heavyweights of our local waters. These bruisers can top 500 pounds and stretch well over 10 feet long. They're known for their stubborn fights and powerful runs. Bulls aren't picky eaters, which is good news for us anglers. They'll hit just about any bait you throw their way. Spring through fall is prime time for bulls around St. Simons, with summer being the peak season. When you hook into one of these guys, you better have your sea legs ready - they've been known to drag entire boats around!
Thresher Sharks are the acrobats of the shark world. These guys are famous for their incredibly long, whip-like tails that can be as long as their body. They use these tails to stun their prey, and let me tell you, they're not afraid to use them when hooked either. Expect some serious surface action if you're lucky enough to hook one. Threshers tend to show up in our waters during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring. They're not as common as some other species, which makes landing one even more special.
Blacktip Sharks might not be the biggest sharks out there, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. These speedsters are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Don't be surprised to see one clear the water by several feet when hooked. Blacktips typically range from 4 to 6 feet long, making them a great target for anglers of all skill levels. They're most abundant in our waters during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Their meat is also considered some of the best eating among sharks, though remember, this is a catch-and-release charter.
There's something special about shark fishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the raw power you feel when that rod bends double and line starts screaming off the reel. Or perhaps it's the primal thrill of going toe-to-toe with one of nature's perfect predators. Whatever it is, I've seen plenty of anglers get hooked harder than the sharks themselves after their first trip. And let's be honest, there's some serious bragging rights that come with landing a shark bigger than you are. Just wait till you show your buddies those pictures - they won't believe their eyes. Plus, with our catch-and-release policy, you get all the excitement of the catch while knowing you're helping preserve these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Look, I could go on all day about the rush of shark fishing, but nothing I say can compare to experiencing it yourself. This 5-hour private trip is the perfect way to get a taste of the action without committing to a full day. And with just you and a buddy on board, you'll get plenty of chances to tangle with some toothy critters. Whether you're looking to scratch "catch a shark" off your bucket list or you're a seasoned angler wanting to test your skills, this trip delivers. But fair warning - shark fishing can be addictive. Don't be surprised if you find yourself planning your next trip before we even hit the dock. So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, book your spot, and get ready for a fishing adventure you'll be talking about for years to come. The sharks are out there waiting - let's go show 'em who's boss!
Blacktip Sharks are a blast to catch - known for their energetic fights and impressive jumps. These sharks usually run 4 to 5 feet long, but can reach up to 9 feet in some cases. They're built for speed, with a streamlined body that helps them chase down fast-moving prey. You'll often find Blacktips patrolling artificial reefs and hanging around in water about 100 feet deep. They also like to cruise muddy bays and island lagoons closer to shore. Summer's your best bet for hooking into one of these speedsters. Anglers love Blacktips for their lightning-fast runs and aerial acrobatics. When hooked, they'll often leap clear out of the water, making for an exciting fight. To target Blacktips, use oily fish like mackerel or herring as bait. A local trick is to chum the water with a mashed-up fish paste to draw them in. Once they catch the scent, be ready - Blacktips can get pretty fired up during a feeding frenzy. Just remember, they can be a bit shy at first, so patience is key when fishing for these high-flying sharks.
Bull Sharks are one of the toughest fighters you'll find in our waters. These stocky sharks typically range from 8 to 12 feet long and can weigh up to 300 pounds. You'll often find them cruising in shallow coastal areas, but what makes them really unique is their ability to swim up freshwater rivers and streams. Summer and early fall are prime times to target Bulls around St. Simons. Anglers love going after them for the sheer power and intensity of the fight. When you hook into one of these bruisers, be ready for a battle. To up your chances, try using fresh cut bait like mullet or mackerel. A little local trick - soak your bait in some menhaden oil to really get their attention. Bulls have an incredible sense of smell, so a potent scent trail can make all the difference. Just remember, these sharks demand respect. They're known for their aggressive nature, so always follow safety guidelines when handling them. It's all part of the thrill of tangling with one of the ocean's top predators right in our backyard.
Thresher Sharks are a real treat to catch around St. Simons, known for their distinctive whip-like tails that can be as long as their bodies. These open ocean hunters typically run 10 to 16 feet long and can top 500 pounds. You'll find Threshers cruising offshore waters, usually 40 to 50 miles out where depths hit around 2000 feet. They like cooler water temps between 60-70°F, so late spring to early fall is your best bet for hooking one. Anglers love Threshers for their acrobatic fights - they're known to leap clear out of the water. Plus, their meat is considered some of the best eating among sharks. When targeting Threshers, try trolling with artificial lures that mimic their favorite prey like mackerel or squid. Set your lures to run 25-50 feet deep. A local tip: keep an eye out for bait balls near the surface. Threshers often hunt around these, so it's a good sign you're in the right spot.