If you’re in the market for a monster catch, check out the Shark fishing California has in store. Monster Makos ranging from 500 to well over 1,000 lbs are just one prize in these waters, able to satisfy even the most severe adrenaline junkies. Depending on where you set sail, expect to hook into anything from Makos, Threshers, Blues, and Hammerheads to Sevengills and humble Leopard Sharks. With so much variety here in the Golden State, anglers have plenty of reason to chase after these brutes—and it’s not always about landing a trophy. Whether you’re hoping to bring something unique to the dinner table or just hoping to teach your kids that Sharks aren’t really so scary after all, spending some time up close and personal with these grinning giants is sure to be memorable.

What to Catch

Southern California

The waters between Los Angeles and San Diego are notorious for hosting monster Sharks. Mako Sharks play a leading role in this fear-factor fishery. You could encounter this species any time of year, but they’re most abundant from May through October—when anglers hook into monster Makos (500+ lbs). Trophy Threshers inhabit the same hunting grounds from March until June. Come November, anglers turn their attention to Blue Sharks, which keep them busy until March in time for Threshers again.

Northern California

Northern California also sees Mako, Thresher, and Blue Sharks, but these are more like extras compared to the main cast around here. Anglers on the hunt for a trophy Shark in San Francisco Bay and the surrounding area have 11 species to choose from, including year-round inhabitants and seasonal visitors.

Though they are hardly intimidating, Leopard Sharks are the most popular catch in these waters, mainly because there are so many of them. Tomales Bay to the north of San Francisco is infamous for its Leopard Shark frenzies. Sevengill Sharks are another local favorite, known to reach up to 10 feet in length. Meanwhile, Soupfin Sharks are the most aggressive local species. Great Whites occasionally wander into the bays, but you’re most likely to spot them out by the Farallones Islands in fall.

California Shark Fishing Techniques

Anglers catch Sharks in a wide variety of ways, depending on the species as well as local regulations. It’s illegal to chum for Sharks in San Francisco Bay, but plenty of fishermen in southern California rely on this method to lure their catch to the boat. Bonito, Barracuda, and Tuna work well when chumming for local species. Bait your hook with the same fish you’re using as chum for the best results.

Trolling fresh bait for Threshers and other species is also effective. Drifting and anchoring are common, too, especially when bottom fishing for Leopard Sharks.

Depending on the size of the Shark, you may prefer to use light or heavy tackle. Ambitious anglers go so far as to hook some Sharks on fly rod. Circle and J hooks are the best way to avoid harming any Sharks you intend to release.

Need to Know

Anglers age 16 and above must bring a CA fishing license. It’s legal to keep most Shark species in California, except for Great Whites (be sure to check size and bag limits). Many charter captains encourage catch-and-release, but some offer to clean your catch if you plan on eating it. Species with good food value include Mako, Thresher, Blue, Soupfin, Sevengill, and Leopard Sharks.