Fort Myers Shark Fishing with Luck o' The Irish
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
4hour summer shark fishing targeting Blacktip and Bonnethead speciesAll equipment and bait provided for safe shark handlingAccommodates up to 6 guests on inshore fishing adventure
Get ready for some serious action on the waters around Fort Myers! This 4-hour shark fishing adventure with Luck o' The Irish Fishing Charters puts you face-to-face with some of Southwest Florida's most exciting predators. From June through September, when the water heats up and shark activity goes through the roof, you'll be targeting species like Blacktip, Bonnethead, and even small Bull Sharks in the productive inshore waters. Captain provides everything you need – rods, reels, bait, and all the heavy-duty gear required to safely handle these powerful fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this top-rated charter delivers the kind of heart-pounding fishing that keeps people talking long after they're back on dry land.
You'll be fishing the prime inshore waters around Fort Myers, where shallow flats meet deeper channels – exactly where sharks love to hunt. The boat accommodates up to 4 guests, so you're not crowded and everyone gets plenty of action. Your captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and will position you over the best structure and current breaks where sharks congregate during summer months. The 4-hour timeframe gives you solid fishing time without wearing you out – perfect for families or groups with mixed experience levels. Expect to use heavy tackle with circle hooks and wire leaders, essential gear when you're dealing with fish that have razor-sharp teeth and can peel line off your reel faster than you'd think possible. The captain handles all the tricky stuff like rigging and unhooking, so you can focus on the fight and the fun.
Shark fishing is all about patience, proper presentation, and having the right equipment for the job. You'll be using stout rods paired with high-capacity reels loaded with heavy braided line – we're talking 50-80 pound test because these fish don't mess around. The captain rigs up with steel leaders and circle hooks, which are not only safer for the fish but also hook up better when a shark commits to your bait. Fresh cut bait is the name of the game – think chunks of mackerel, ladyfish, or whatever's been caught fresh that morning. The technique involves anchoring over productive bottom structure or drifting along current edges where baitfish concentrate. When a shark picks up your bait, you'll feel that unmistakable weight and power as it takes off on its initial run. The key is staying calm, keeping steady pressure, and letting the fish tire itself out before bringing it boatside for photos and a quick release.
Bonnethead Sharks are probably the most common catch on these trips, and don't let their smaller size fool you – these 2-4 foot sharks are feisty fighters with an interesting hammerhead-shaped noggin that makes for great photos. They're active all summer long and perfect for first-time shark anglers or kids who want to experience the rush without being overwhelmed. Blacktip Sharks bring the real excitement, with fish ranging from 3-6 feet that can put on spectacular aerial displays when hooked. These athletic predators are known for their speed and jumping ability, often clearing the water completely when they feel the hook. You'll find them most active during the peak summer months when baitfish are thick in the area. Bull Sharks represent the heavyweight division – even the smaller ones we encounter inshore pack serious muscle and attitude. These thick-bodied bruisers are built for power rather than speed, and when you hook into one, you'll know it immediately from the way it digs deep and just refuses to give up. Tiger Sharks and Lemon Sharks round out the possibilities, both incredible fighters that can show up when conditions are right and make your day absolutely memorable.
This customer favorite books up fast during peak season, especially weekends and holidays when everyone wants to get on the water. The summer shark bite in Fort Myers is world-class, and experienced anglers know that June through September offers the most consistent action. At just 4 guests maximum, you're getting a personalized experience that bigger boats can't match. The captain's local knowledge and top-quality gear make this a smart choice whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to try something different from the usual fishing routine. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before you commit. For the best experience and to ask any specific questions about what to expect, give them a call at 239-333-9858 before booking online. The captain can fill you in on recent fishing reports and help you pick the perfect day for your shark fishing adventure.
This 27' Carolina Skiff from Luck O' The Irish Charters is built for serious shark action in Fort Myers' back bays. The wide center console design gives all 4 anglers plenty of casting room while staying stable when you're battling a feisty blacktip or bonnethead. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet as you move into position, while the fish finder helps locate where sharks are cruising. An icebox keeps your drinks cold during those hot summer sessions, and the GPS ensures you can navigate back to productive spots. The radar comes in handy when afternoon storms roll through the area. Being close to docks means quick access for any breaks needed, making this perfect for families wanting to try something beyond typical inshore fishing. The boat handles well in the shallows where these sharks love to hunt, giving everyone a real shot at hooking into something with some serious pull.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are our most active summer sharks, running 4-6 feet with those telltale black-tipped fins. They're exciting because they actually jump clear out of the water when hooked - sometimes right into the boat if you're not ready for it. You'll find them cruising shallow reefs and sandy areas in 30-100 feet of water during peak summer months. They're social sharks that get worked up in feeding situations, making for some wild action when you get into a school. Guests love the aerial show and strong runs these fish put on. They're also great eating if you decide to keep one. My go-to setup is fresh mackerel or herring on circle hooks with heavy braid - at least 30-pound test. Pro tip: once you hook up, keep that rod tip low because they'll use every bit of that jump to throw the hook.
Sphyrna TiburoBonnetheads are the smallest hammerheads you'll see around Fort Myers, usually running 3-4 feet with that distinctive shovel-shaped head. They're pretty mellow sharks that travel in small schools along our shallow bays and grass flats. Summer months are prime time when they move into warmer inshore waters to feed on crabs and small fish. What makes them fun to target is they're perfect for first-time shark anglers - they fight hard but aren't too intimidating size-wise. The whole family gets a kick out of seeing that unique head shape up close. Here's a local trick: use fresh blue crab cut in half and hook it through a leg joint. The oily scent drives them crazy, and that firm crab meat stays on the hook even when they're being picky.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the toughest sharks we target - thick, stocky, and aggressive with an attitude to match. Most run 6-10 feet and pack serious muscle into that barrel-shaped body. They're unique because they can handle both salt and fresh water, so you might find them way up in rivers or tight against the beach. Summer brings peak action when they move inshore to feed and breed. Guests get fired up about bulls because they're legendary fighters that make long, powerful runs and never give up easy. They're also the most unpredictable - you never know when one might show up. Heavy tackle is a must with at least 50-pound test and wire leaders. The magic bait around here is fresh eel - the oil content drives them nuts and the tough skin stays on the hook. Cut it into 8-inch chunks and let it sit on the bottom.
Negaprion BrevirostrisLemon sharks are one of our most consistent summer targets, with that bright yellow-brown color that's easy to spot in clear water. They typically run 6-8 feet around here and have a reputation for being strong, steady fighters rather than jumpers. You'll find them in sandy areas, around structure, and especially near mangrove edges where they hunt for fish and rays. Summer months bring the best action when water temps climb into the 80s. What guests really enjoy is their curious nature - lemons will often circle the boat and investigate before committing to a bait. They're also excellent table fare if you're looking to keep one for dinner. The secret is using fresh stingray or jack as bait on the bottom with a fish finder rig. Lemons have great eyesight, so make sure that bait looks natural and isn't spinning.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the ultimate trophy shark - massive, powerful, and unmistakable with those dark stripes that fade as they age. Around Fort Myers, we're talking 8-12 footers that can weigh 500-800 pounds, though the big females get much larger. They cruise deeper waters but move shallow to hunt, especially during summer months when baitfish are thick. These are bucket-list fish that provide an intense fight you'll remember forever. They're nomadic and follow warm currents, so timing matters. What makes them special is their incredible strength and that prehistoric look when you see one alongside the boat. We use heavy tackle - 100-pound test minimum - with big chunks of tuna, mackerel, or bluefish. Here's the key: patience and fresh, oily bait. Tigers have an amazing sense of smell, so keep that chum line going strong.
Fort Myers Beach, FL