3 Hour Shark Fishing Adventure in Port Orange
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Blacktip, Spinner, and Hammerhead sharks near Ponce InletProfessional gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning includedSmall group charter accommodates maximum four passengers
If you're ready to test your skills against some of the ocean's most powerful predators, this 3-hour shark fishing trip out of Port Orange delivers exactly what you're looking for. Captain Mike Davis runs a tight ship and knows these Atlantic waters like the back of his hand, taking you to productive spots near Ponce Inlet where sharks cruise year-round. Whether you've been chasing toothy critters for years or this is your first time targeting sharks, you'll appreciate the professional setup and personalized attention that comes with keeping groups small at just 4 anglers max.
Your day starts at 81 Dunlawton Ave where you'll meet Captain Mike and get a quick rundown of the game plan. Once we're underway, it's a short run to the productive waters off Ponce Inlet where the Atlantic serves up consistent shark action. The beauty of this fishery is that sharks patrol these waters throughout the year, though certain species show up in higher numbers during specific seasons. You'll be fishing with quality tackle designed to handle powerful runs and sudden direction changes that make shark fishing so addictive. The boat is set up specifically for this type of fishing, with plenty of room to fight fish and all the safety gear you need when dealing with apex predators. Captain Mike keeps things educational too, explaining shark behavior and helping you understand what's happening below the surface when your drag starts screaming.
This trip combines two proven techniques that consistently produce sharks in these waters. We'll spend time bottom fishing with fresh bait, letting chunks of baitfish sit on the seafloor where cruising sharks pick up the scent trail. The key is patience and understanding that sharks often follow scent corridors before committing to a bite. When bottom fishing slows down, we switch to trolling, covering water to locate active fish and putting baits at different depths in the water column. Captain Mike provides all the tackle, from heavy spinning reels to conventional setups that can handle the sudden power of a hooked shark. Fresh bait is included, along with circle hooks that improve hook-up ratios and make releases safer for both angler and fish. Your Florida fishing license is covered, and if you hook something edible like a blacktip, complimentary fish cleaning is part of the package. Just bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and be ready for some serious rod-bending action.
Shortfin Mako Sharks represent the ultimate challenge in these waters, known for blistering runs and spectacular jumps that can happen without warning. These speed demons prefer cooler water and show up most consistently during spring and fall months when water temperatures drop into their comfort zone. Makos average 6-8 feet in local waters but can push much larger, and their initial run will test both your drag system and your nerves. What makes them special is their incredible athletic ability - no other shark combines speed, power, and aerial displays like a hooked mako.
Lemon Sharks are year-round residents that offer excellent sport on lighter tackle, typically running 4-6 feet and known for their golden coloration that makes them instantly recognizable. These sharks prefer shallow water structure and are often found near inlet mouths where they hunt in the current lines. Lemons fight with steady power rather than explosive runs, making them perfect for anglers who want to experience a longer battle. They're also one of the most photogenic sharks, with their distinctive color and calm demeanor during releases.
Bull Sharks earn their reputation as one of the strongest fighters pound-for-pound, with thick bodies and stubborn attitudes that make every hookup a memorable battle. These apex predators can tolerate both saltwater and brackish conditions, often moving close to shore and into inlet systems. Summer months see the highest bull shark activity, and they're notorious for their powerful head-shaking fights that can straighten hooks or part leaders. Bulls typically range from 5-7 feet in these waters, but their stocky build packs incredible muscle mass that translates into serious pulling power.
Sand Tiger Sharks provide consistent action and are perfect for photographers, with their menacing appearance and docile fighting style making them easier to handle during releases. These sharks are most active during cooler months, often gathering in small groups near structure and ledges. Sand tigers average 5-6 feet and are easily identified by their pointed snouts and visible teeth. While they don't make the blazing runs of other species, they offer steady pressure and are excellent for anglers learning proper shark fighting techniques. Their predictable behavior also makes them great for families wanting to experience shark fishing without dealing with more unpredictable species.
This top-rated shark fishing experience combines productive local waters, professional guiding, and the right boat setup to give you legitimate shots at multiple shark species in just three hours. Captain Mike's approach focuses on putting you on fish while teaching proper techniques and safety procedures that make the difference between a good trip and a great one. The 4-person limit ensures everyone gets hands-on time and personal instruction, whether you're learning to set the drag properly or perfecting your fighting technique. With all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning included, you can focus entirely on the fishing. Book your spot now and get ready to experience why shark fishing off Port Orange keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Get ready for serious shark action aboard our 2023 23' C-Hawk! This stable, comfortable boat is powered by a reliable 150hp Suzuki and built specifically for Port Orange's inshore waters and Ponce Inlet's productive fishing grounds. We've equipped her with top-tier GPS and all the gear you need to target Blacktip, Spinner, and Hammerhead sharks in the Atlantic. Captain Mike Davis runs a tight ship with room for up to 4 anglers, so you'll get personalized coaching whether you're a seasoned pro or bringing the family for their first shark encounter. We use both bottom fishing and trolling techniques to put you on the fish, and everything's included - quality tackle, fresh bait, ice, and Florida licenses. The C-Hawk handles Port Orange's flats and offshore reefs with ease, giving you a stable platform to fight these powerful fish. We'll clean any edible species at no charge, and all you need to bring are snacks and drinks. Meet us at 81 Dunlawton Ave ready to fish - this boat delivers results.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bruisers of our local waters - thick, aggressive, and built like tanks. These gray powerhouses run 8-10 feet on average and can show up anywhere from the surf zone to miles offshore. What makes them unique is their ability to move between salt and fresh water, so we sometimes catch them near river mouths after heavy rains. Summer brings the best bull shark action, especially during incoming tides when they're actively hunting. Guests love targeting bulls because they fight dirty - no fancy jumps, just pure bulldogging power that'll test your shoulders. The meat is decent eating too, though they're catch-and-release only in some areas. My secret weapon for bulls is fresh eel - its high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible to them and it stays on the hook through their aggressive strikes. Once you hook one, just hang on and let your drag do the work.
Negaprion BrevirostrisNamed for their yellowish coloring, lemon sharks are one of our most reliable targets in the shallower waters around Ponce Inlet. These stocky fighters typically run 6-8 feet and have a reputation for being aggressive feeders, especially during summer months when they move into our warmer coastal waters. You'll find them cruising sandy bottoms and around structure in 20-60 feet of water, often following schools of baitfish. What guests love about lemons is their tenacious fight - they don't give up easily and will make multiple runs even when tired. They're also great table fare with firm, mild meat that cleans up nicely. The key to hooking lemons consistently is using fresh cut bait on the bottom - bonito or mackerel work best. I always tell clients to let them run with the bait for a good 10 seconds before setting the hook. These sharks are smart and will drop suspicious baits in a heartbeat.
Carcharias TaurusDon't let their menacing teeth fool you - sand tigers are actually pretty mellow fighters, but they're fascinating to catch. These brown-spotted sharks run 7-9 feet and have this unique ability to gulp air to hover motionless while hunting. We find them on sandy bottoms in 15-80 feet of water, especially around wrecks and ledges where they ambush prey. May through October gives us our best shot at them when they migrate through our area following baitfish. What makes sand tigers special is their prehistoric look and surprisingly gentle nature - perfect for families wanting to catch a "real" shark without the chaos. They're decent eating with firm white meat. The trick with sand tigers is patience and fresh, bloody bait on the bottom. Cut bonito or rays work great, and I always anchor the bait with weight since these sharks hunt by sitting still and waiting for food to come to them.
Isurus OxyrinchusThe fastest shark in the ocean, makos are pure adrenaline on the end of your line. These metallic blue torpedoes average 8-12 feet and pack serious muscle - they're famous for launching 20 feet out of the water when hooked. We find them in the deeper Atlantic waters beyond the inlet, usually cruising near the surface hunting tuna and dolphins. Spring through fall gives us the best action when water temps hit their sweet spot. What makes mako fishing special is their intelligence and fight - they'll use every trick to break free, including jumping right into the boat if you're not careful. My go-to technique is high-speed trolling with fresh bluefish - their oily scent drives makos crazy. Just remember to keep that drag smooth because when a mako decides to run, it's going to test every knot you tied.
Port Orange, FL