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Spinner Shark

Carcharhinus brevipinna

Also known as

null

IUCN status

Near Threatened

About the Spinner Shark

Often mistaken for its cousin, the blacktip shark, the spinner shark is a sleek and powerful predator. It boasts a slender, torpedo-shaped body, typically gray to bronze on its dorsal side, fading to a white belly. A key identifier is the usually un-marked or only faintly dusky tips on its fins, contrasting with the prominent black tips of the blacktip shark. Anglers should note its somewhat larger average size compared to the blacktip.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Spinner sharks are versatile inhabitants, ranging from shallow coastal waters and estuaries to offshore environments, down to depths of about 100 meters. They show a strong preference for warmer, shallower areas, often frequenting bays, surf zones, and nearshore reefs.

Distribution

Globally, spinner sharks are widespread across tropical and warm temperate oceans, making their home in the Atlantic, Indian, and western Pacific waters. They are notably absent from the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Behaviour

True to their name, spinner sharks are celebrated for their spectacular aerial displays, leaping and spinning out of the water, especially when feeding on schooling fish. They are active, opportunistic predators, often forming large aggregations to hunt their prey, which includes small bony fish like mullet, menhaden, and sardines. These powerful sharks are known for strong, fast runs and acrobatic fights when hooked, making them an exciting target for anglers.

Edibility

★★★★★

The meat of the spinner shark is generally considered fair to good, often sold as 'shark' in markets. Proper bleeding and immediate icing are crucial to ensure the best table quality and prevent any ammonia taste.

Lure suggestion

For spinner sharks, live or fresh cut bait, particularly oily fish like mullet, menhaden, ladyfish, or mackerel, are highly effective. Anglers should use stout tackle, a heavy fluorocarbon or wire leader (100-200lb test), and a large circle hook (8/0-12/0) to target these powerful fighters. Drifting baits or casting into feeding frenzies near schooling baitfish can yield exciting results.