Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

About the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

The Scalloped Hammerhead is easily recognized by its distinctive 'hammer' shaped head, called a cephalofoil, which has a prominent indentation in the center of its front margin. Its eyes and nostrils are positioned at the tips of this hammer, aiding in sensory perception. The body is typically slender with a high, curved dorsal fin, and its coloration ranges from bronze to brownish-gray on top, fading to white underneath, providing camouflage in its pelagic environment. These sharks can grow to impressive sizes, making them a powerful catch for any angler.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

This species prefers warm temperate and tropical waters, often found near coastal areas, continental shelves, and oceanic islands. They frequently aggregate around reefs, seamounts, and estuaries, especially as juveniles. While often encountered offshore, they can also venture into shallower, inshore waters.

Distribution

Scalloped Hammerheads have a wide global distribution, inhabiting tropical and warm temperate oceans worldwide. They are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, typically between 40°N and 40°S latitudes.

Behaviour

Scalloped Hammerheads are active, opportunistic predators, primarily feeding on a variety of bony fishes, cephalopods like squid and octopus, and other sharks and rays. They are known to form large schools, especially during migrations or for reproductive purposes, but hunt solitarily or in smaller groups. They undertake seasonal migrations, moving to cooler waters in summer and warmer waters in winter. Their unique cephalofoil is believed to enhance their hunting abilities, especially for detecting prey.

Edibility

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The meat of the Scalloped Hammerhead is considered edible, with a firm, white flesh, though it can sometimes have a strong flavor if not properly bled and handled. Due to their position as apex predators, they can accumulate high levels of mercury, which is a significant health concern, and conservation status often prompts catch-and-release.

Lure suggestion

Targeting Scalloped Hammerheads often involves heavy tackle due to their size and power. Effective baits include large live fish such as bonito, mackerel, or ladyfish, or substantial chunks of fresh cut bait like tuna or bonito. Rigging typically involves a strong wire leader of at least 200-400 lb test, a large circle hook (16/0 to 20/0), and often a float to keep the bait suspended. Chumming with oily fish can also be very effective at drawing them in. They are often caught by anglers fishing for other large pelagic species.