Catching big sharks in April

Wherever you are in ocean waters, shark action begins when water temperatures hits the mid-60s and is at its prime at 72 degrees. The warming water brings baitfish to the shallows and sharks follow. Sharks are attracted by the scent of blood in the water so be sure to chum (where it is legal) and bring the feeding frenzy to your location. Whether surf-fishing or in a boat, casting cut dead baitfish on flats and letting your bait lie on the bottom is the way to bring in big sharks scavenging the flats. April is the prime time to run into massive hammerhead sharks. Be sure to gear up with heavy-duty tackle that can stand up to the explosive fight of big sharks––extra heavy wire hooks, steel leaders, and strong PowerPro braided line (100-pound test). Larger sized baitcast or spinning reels are a must have––you need a reel with a sturdy drag, lots of line capacity, and powerful gears for cranking.  The Shimano Thunnus CI4 reel has a “bait runner” option––sharks may pick up baits without resistance––and also has the power and line capacity to give you the advantage over big sharks.