Afternoon Shark Trip in Port Canaveral, FL
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
5hour offshore shark fishing adventure for up to 6 guestsCaptain Michael Nello brings 28 years of local fishing expertisePotential dolphin sightings and diverse marine life encounters included
When you're talking serious shark fishing in Central Florida, Captain Michael Nello and his Fintactic Charters operation is the real deal. Since 1996, this guy has been putting anglers on some of the most sought-after sharks swimming off Port Canaveral's coast. This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're back at the dock wondering what happened – we're talking a full 5-hour afternoon charter that gives you legitimate shots at multiple shark species in waters that consistently produce. Captain Nello knows these offshore grounds like the back of his hand, and when you've got nearly three decades of experience reading currents, bait movements, and seasonal patterns, that knowledge translates directly to more hookups for his guests.
This top-rated afternoon shark charter accommodates up to 6 anglers, making it perfect for serious fishing groups or families looking to experience world-class shark action together. You'll head out from Port Canaveral in the afternoon when shark activity typically picks up as the sun starts its descent. The 5-hour window gives Captain Nello plenty of time to work different depths and structures where these predators patrol. Don't expect to just anchor up and hope for the best – this charter moves with the bite, following bait schools and reading water conditions to put you where the sharks are actively feeding. The boat comes equipped with everything you need, from heavy tackle capable of handling big bulls and tigers to the lighter setups perfect for bonnetheads and blacktips. You'll be fishing in waters where dolphin sightings are common, and the marine life diversity adds another layer of excitement to an already action-packed afternoon.
Shark fishing offshore Port Canaveral requires specific techniques that Captain Nello has refined over decades of chasing these apex predators. We're talking circle hooks, wire leaders, and baits that range from fresh cut fish to live bait depending on what species we're targeting and what's available that day. The captain runs heavy conventional reels spooled with serious line – you're not bringing in a 200-pound bull shark on light tackle. Techniques vary based on conditions, but expect everything from drift fishing over structure to anchored presentations near drop-offs where sharks cruise for easy meals. The key is reading the water, understanding how different species behave at various times of day, and adjusting your presentation accordingly. Captain Nello handles all the rigging and knows exactly where to position baits in the water column for maximum effectiveness. When something big hits, you'll have the backing of quality gear and an experienced captain who knows how to fight these fish without losing them at the boat.
Bonnethead sharks are often the most active species during afternoon trips, and these smaller members of the hammerhead family put up a surprising fight for their size. Typically ranging from 2-4 feet, bonnetheads are perfect for anglers new to shark fishing while still providing legitimate excitement. They're most active during warmer months and often travel in schools, so multiple hookups are common when you find them.
Blacktip sharks are the acrobats of the shark world, and Port Canaveral's waters hold some beautiful specimens. These sharks average 3-5 feet but don't let the size fool you – blacktips are known for their aerial displays when hooked, often jumping completely out of the water multiple times during the fight. They're year-round residents but peak activity happens during spring and fall migrations when they move in large numbers along the coast.
Atlantic Sharpnose sharks might be on the smaller side, typically 1-3 feet, but they're aggressive biters that keep the action steady when larger species aren't cooperating. These sharks are perfect for kids or first-time shark anglers, and their abundance in local waters means you're almost guaranteed some action. They're most active during summer months and often the first species to hit your baits.
Bull sharks represent the serious end of what you might encounter on this charter. These powerful predators can exceed 8 feet and 300 pounds in local waters, and they're known for their aggressive nature and incredible fighting ability. Bulls prefer deeper waters and structure, and afternoon trips often coincide with their feeding times. Landing a mature bull shark is a legitimate trophy experience that most anglers remember for years.
Tiger sharks are the ultimate prize for many shark anglers visiting Port Canaveral. These apex predators can grow massive – specimens over 10 feet and 400 pounds have been caught in local waters. Tigers are more active during warmer months and often feed during late afternoon and evening hours, making this charter timing ideal. Their distinctive markings and incredible size make them a bucket-list catch for serious anglers, and Captain Nello's experience gives you the best shot at connecting with one of these legendary predators.
Captain Nello's afternoon shark charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons when shark activity is at its highest. This isn't just another fishing trip – it's a chance to target multiple shark species with one of Port Canaveral's most experienced captains in waters that consistently produce quality fish. Whether you're looking to introduce kids to shark fishing with smaller species or hoping to tangle with a massive bull or tiger, this 5-hour charter gives you the time and expertise needed for success. The combination of Captain Nello's nearly three decades of experience, quality equipment, and proven fishing grounds makes this a customer favorite among serious anglers. Don't wait until you're already in town – these afternoon slots book weeks in advance during prime fishing seasons. Secure your spot now and get ready for some of the best shark fishing the Space Coast has to offer.
Captain Michael's restored 1978 Stuart Angler is your ride to some serious shark action off Port Canaveral. This center console beauty got a complete makeover in 2010 and runs like new. With dual helm stations, you'll have great views whether you're up top or staying closer to the action below. The V-berth includes a head for comfort during those longer battles with big fish. Modern electronics including GPS, radar, VHF radio, and fish finder help locate the best shark zones in offshore waters. Built for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to fight fish without getting tangled up. The boat carries all Coast Guard safety gear, so you can focus on hooking into those monsters lurking in the deep blue. Perfect setup for friends or family ready to test their skills against some of Florida's most powerful predators.
Rhizoprionodon TerraenovaeSharpnose are our most common catch - these smaller sharks top out around 3-4 feet but pack plenty of fight. You'll recognize them by their pointed snouts and the small white spots along their brownish sides. They stick close to shore in bays and surf zones year-round, making them perfect for lighter tackle fishing. Kids and beginners love them because they're aggressive biters that hit almost any bait you put down. Despite their size, they're strong swimmers that'll give you a good scrap on 20-pound gear. The meat's actually pretty tasty too. My advice: bring a landing net and gloves - their skin is rough and those teeth are sharp. They're not picky eaters, so live shrimp or cut bait works great.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of the shark world, known for launching 20+ feet out of the water when hooked. These 4-6 foot sharks cruise our coastal waters year-round, but peak action happens spring through fall when baitfish are thick. They patrol reefs and structures in 30-100 feet, feeding on mackerel, sardines, and whatever's schooling. What guests love is their aerial show and aggressive strikes - they'll hit live bait hard and put on a real fight. Despite being excitable, they're actually pretty timid around other sharks. Your best bet is fresh, oily bait like sardines or mackerel chunks. Start chumming early and use 30-50 pound gear with circle hooks - when they jump, keep tension steady and let the drag work.
Sphyrna TiburoThe smallest hammerhead you'll encounter, bonnetheads run 3-4 feet and are easy to spot with their shovel-shaped heads. These shy sharks travel in schools of 10-15, staying close to shore in shallow bays and estuaries where they hunt crabs and small fish. Fall through early spring is prime time when they migrate down from the Carolinas to our warmer Florida waters. What makes them fun is their scrappy fight despite being harmless - only one human bite ever recorded. They're perfect for families since kids can handle the 20-pound test gear needed. Pro tip: fresh blue crab chunks work best, but cut the crab in half and hook it through a leg joint to keep it secure during the fight.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bruisers - thick, aggressive sharks that can handle both salt and brackish water, making them common around river mouths and inlets. These 8-10 footers are built like tanks with serious bite power. Summer brings the best action when they move into our shallower coastal waters to feed. What guests love is their raw strength and unpredictable nature - they fight dirty and don't give up easy. We target them around structure in 20-80 feet using heavy tackle and fresh cut bait. Here's the secret: freshwater eel is absolute candy to bulls. Its high oil content and tough skin makes it perfect bait that won't get picked off by smaller fish. Use 50+ pound gear and be ready for a serious tug-of-war.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the heavyweights we target - these apex predators can stretch 12-16 feet and pack serious power. Named for their dark stripes that fade with age, they're nomadic hunters following warm currents into our waters during summer and fall. We find them around deeper structure and reefs, usually 100+ feet, though they'll move shallow to feed. What makes them special is the fight - pure strength and endurance that tests your gear and patience. They're not fast swimmers but explode when they strike. Fresh tuna, mackerel, or bluefish chunks work best on heavy tackle - think 100-pound test and 10/0 circle hooks. My tip: let them run after the hookup and stay patient. These fish have serious stamina, so settle in for a battle.
Cape Canaveral, FL