Shark

About the Shark

Sharks are fascinating cartilaginous fish, characterized by a skeleton made of cartilage rather than bone. They typically possess five to seven pairs of gill slits on each side, which open individually to the exterior, and have rigid dorsal fins. Their skin is covered in small, tooth-like placoid scales, giving them a rough texture. A distinctive feature is their formidable dentition, with teeth arranged in multiple series and a jaw not fused to the cranium, allowing for powerful bites.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Sharks inhabit a vast array of marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deep open ocean, and even some freshwater systems. They can be found in tropical, temperate, and polar seas, adapting to diverse conditions.

Distribution

As a group, sharks are globally distributed, present in all the world's oceans. Their presence spans from near-shore nurseries to the abyssal plains, reflecting their wide ecological adaptability.

Behaviour

Sharks are apex predators, exhibiting a wide range of feeding strategies from active pursuit to ambush hunting, preying on fish, marine mammals, and invertebrates. Their movements can be highly migratory, covering vast distances seasonally in search of food or breeding grounds. While generally solitary, some species can be observed in aggregations, especially during feeding frenzies or mating rituals.

Edibility

★★★★★

While some species are prized for their firm, white meat, others can have a strong ammonia taste due to urea in their flesh if not properly bled and cleaned. When prepared correctly, shark meat can be an enjoyable option, often grilled, fried, or used in stews.

Lure suggestion

Angling for sharks typically involves using large, oily dead baits such as bonito, mackerel, or whole squid, presented on sturdy circle hooks to minimize gut hooking. Heavy-duty conventional tackle, robust monofilament or braided line, and a wire leader are essential to withstand their powerful runs and sharp teeth. Chumming is often effective to draw them closer to the boat or shore.