Private 3 Hour Shark Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Threehour Atlantic Ocean shark fishing adventure for six guestsAll equipment, bait, tackle, and cold water provided onboardTarget coastal sharks while anchored near productive fishing grounds
Picture this: you're anchored up in the Atlantic, lines set with chunky bait, waiting for that telltale screaming drag that means business. Our 3-hour shark fishing adventure puts you right in the action zone where these apex predators cruise the coastal waters. This isn't your typical bottom fishing trip – we're targeting some of the most powerful fish in the ocean, and every hookup is guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Running Tide Charters handles all the heavy lifting with top-rated tackle, fresh bait, and ice-cold water, so you can focus on what matters: landing that shark of a lifetime.
We'll motor out to proven shark grounds where the Atlantic's food chain comes alive. The beauty of this trip is the variety – while we're anchored and waiting for sharks to find our scent trail, we'll keep busy targeting baitfish and food species that often surprise you with their size and fight. Don't be shocked if we hook into kings, cobia, or even a monster red drum while waiting for the main event. The crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and we're constantly reading conditions, adjusting our spread, and moving to stay on the bite. With a max of 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to fight fish without getting tangled up, and everyone gets their shot at glory. The atmosphere is relaxed but electric – you never know when that next bite might be the one that bends your rod in half.
Shark fishing is all about patience and preparation, and we've got both dialed in. We'll set up a classic shark spread using circle hooks and wire leaders, with chunks of fresh or frozen bait deployed at different depths and distances from the boat. Our heavy conventional reels are spooled with serious line – usually 50-80 pound test – because when a bull shark decides to make a run, you need every advantage. We'll also have lighter spinning gear ready for the baitfish and food species, creating a perfect balance between finesse and brute force fishing. The key is creating a scent slick that draws sharks from a distance, so we'll keep a steady stream of chum and cut bait flowing. Between the waiting periods, you'll learn proper shark handling techniques, circle hook advantages, and how to read the signs that indicate feeding activity is about to heat up.
Leopard sharks are the perfect starter sharks for newcomers to the sport. These beauties typically run 3-5 feet and put up a solid scrap without being overwhelming. They're most active during spring and fall months, and their distinctive spotted pattern makes for amazing photos. What makes leopards special is their predictable nature – once you find them, they're usually willing to bite, making them a customer favorite for building confidence before targeting bigger species.
Bonnethead sharks might be on the smaller side, but don't let that fool you into thinking they're boring. These unique hammerheads are incredibly abundant in our coastal waters and offer non-stop action when they're schooled up. Running 2-4 feet on average, they're perfect for kids and first-time shark anglers. The cool factor comes from their bizarre hammer-shaped head and the fact that they're one of the few sharks that actually eat vegetation along with their normal diet of crabs and small fish.
Blacktip sharks are the acrobats of the shark world, and when you hook one, you'll know it immediately. These 4-6 foot speedsters will jump, spin, and put on an aerial show that rivals any tarpon. Spring through early summer is prime time, when they move into shallow waters to feed and reproduce. The distinctive black-tipped fins give them their name, and their aggressive feeding behavior means they're often the first to find your bait when the bite gets hot.
Tiger sharks represent the pinnacle of inshore shark fishing – these are the fish that separate the rookies from the veterans. Growing to massive proportions and possessing incredible strength, tigers are ambush predators that can appear out of nowhere. Summer nights are when the big girls move shallow, but we encounter them year-round in deeper water. Their distinctive stripes and powerful build make them instantly recognizable, and landing one is a badge of honor that every serious shark angler dreams about.
Bull sharks are pound-for-pound the strongest sharks you'll encounter on this trip. These thick-bodied bruisers prefer murky water and aren't afraid to venture into surprisingly shallow areas. What makes bulls so exciting is their unpredictable behavior – they fight dirty, make sudden direction changes, and never give up until they're boat-side. They're also one of the most widespread species, showing up consistently throughout the season. Their blunt snout and stocky build are unmistakable, and their reputation as one of the ocean's most formidable predators is well-earned.
This world-class shark fishing experience combines the best of both worlds – serious predator fishing with consistent action on food species to keep things interesting during the slower periods. Our proven Atlantic locations, quality tackle, and experienced crew give you the best shot at multiple species and memorable fights. Whether you're looking to introduce someone to shark fishing or add new species to your personal best list, this trip delivers the goods. The 3-hour format is perfect for fitting into your schedule without wearing you out, and with everything provided except your drinks and snacks, it's hassle-free from start to finish. Don't let another season pass without experiencing the rush of fighting one of the ocean's apex predators – book your private charter today and get ready to test your skills against some of the Atlantic's most sought-after sharks.
Step aboard our reliable 2001 World Cat 25-footer and head out into Atlantic waters where sharks are waiting. This spacious catamaran handles offshore conditions with ease thanks to twin 150HP Yamaha engines that'll cruise you to the fishing grounds at 30 knots. The stable twin-hull design keeps you steady while battling big fish, and there's plenty of room for up to 6 anglers to spread out and work their lines. The boat comes equipped with everything serious shark fishermen need - GPS to mark productive spots, fish finder to locate bait schools, and an icebox to keep your drinks cold during the action. When the bite slows down, fire up the wireless trolling motor for quiet positioning over structure where snapper and other bait fish hold. The air conditioning provides a cool break between battles, because three hours of shark fishing under the Atlantic sun can work up a sweat. This cat's proven hull cuts through chop smoothly, getting you to the bite zone fast and bringing you back comfortable after a successful day on the water.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are classic coastal sharks, easily spotted by those black-tipped fins and their habit of jumping clear out of the water when hooked. They typically run 4-6 feet and cruise in 30-100 feet of water around reefs and structure. These sharks are pretty excitable and social, which makes for some wild action when you get into a school. They'll hit hard and make long runs, plus they're known for spectacular aerial displays that'll get everyone's attention on the boat. Best bait is oily fish like mackerel or herring - chunk it up and get a good chum line going. Use heavy braided line with circle hooks because once they're fired up, they can get pretty aggressive. Summer months are prime time when they're most active in our waters.
Sphyrna TiburoBonnetheads are the smallest hammerheads you'll encounter, usually running 3-4 feet with that distinctive spade-shaped head. They're pretty timid sharks that travel in small schools along shallow coastlines, bays, and estuaries. Summer brings them up from Florida into our waters, then they head back south when it cools off. What guests love about them is the scrappy fight they put up for their size - they're surprisingly tough once hooked. They feed heavily on crabs and small fish, so fresh blue crab chunks work best. My go-to trick is cutting the crab in half and threading the hook through a leg - the scent really draws them in. Use at least 20-pound test because they'll make solid runs when hooked.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are thick, powerful sharks that average 8-10 feet and pack serious muscle. They're aggressive feeders found in shallow coastal waters and can even tolerate brackish areas where rivers meet the ocean. Summer brings them into the Chesapeake Bay from late June through September. What makes bulls exciting is their raw power and unpredictable nature - they hit hard and fight dirty with strong runs and sudden direction changes. They're opportunistic feeders, so whole fish like mullet or cut mackerel works well, but my secret weapon is freshwater eel. The high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible and stays on the hook. Use heavy tackle and be ready for a workout - these sharks don't give up easily.
Triakis SemifasciataLeopard Sharks are pretty unique targets - they're completely harmless despite being sharks, getting their name from the distinctive spots covering their slender 4-5 foot bodies. You'll find them cruising shallow bays and around kelp beds, rarely deeper than 100 feet. They're bottom feeders that love crabs, so we use chunks of squid, mackerel, or small crabs as bait. What makes them fun to target is their steady fight and curious nature - they're active during the day but can be tricky since they're naturally wary of people. The key is keeping your bait fresh and using enough weight to stay on the bottom where they feed. Best fishing is during warmer months when they move into the shallows.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the ultimate trophy shark - massive predators that can hit 12-14 feet and over 1,000 pounds. They're nomadic hunters that follow warm currents, usually staying in deeper water but moving shallow to feed. You'll recognize them by those dark stripes that fade with age. What makes them special is the sheer power - when you hook a big tiger, you're in for a serious battle that can last hours. They're not picky eaters, but fresh tuna, mackerel, or bluefish work best. The trick is using heavy tackle across the board - 100-pound test minimum with big circle hooks. Best action is during warmer months when they move closer to shore. These fish demand respect and proper release techniques since they're apex predators essential to ocean health.
Ocean City, MD