There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of hooking into a powerful shark off the Louisiana coast. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time adventurer, shark fishing in the Gulf of Mexico offers an unforgettable challenge—and it all starts with the right bait. Sharks are apex predators, but they’re not indiscriminate eaters. The bait you choose can make or break your chances of landing one of these fierce fish.
Let’s break down the best bait options for shark fishing and explain what makes them effective. We will also share expert tips from Captain Troy Wetzel, who’s been chasing big fish in Louisiana waters for over 30 years. If you’re ready to up your shark game, start by learning what’s on the menu.
Understanding Shark Feeding Behavior
Before you bait your hook, it helps to know what draws a shark in. Sharks rely heavily on their senses—especially smell—to locate food. Their ability to detect blood and oily fish from miles away gives them a serious edge in the hunt. This means your bait needs to stand out in a vast underwater buffet.
Different shark species also have different feeding habits. Blacktip sharks, for example, tend to feed near the surface and prefer fast-moving prey like mullet or blue runners. Bull sharks, on the other hand, are opportunistic feeders and are more likely to go after cut bait or anything with a strong scent, especially in murky inshore waters like Lake Pontchartrain.
Water temperature, time of year, and location also play big roles in what sharks are biting. Warmer months tend to bring more active feeding, and certain bait types become more effective depending on what’s naturally available in the area. That’s why choosing the right bait is not just about what’s worked before—it’s about what works right now, in these waters.
Top Baits for Shark Fishing
When it comes to shark fishing, the bait you use needs to do two things: attract attention and hold up during the fight. The best bait is fresh, oily, and native to the waters where you’re fishing. Below are the most effective baits for catching sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, especially off the Louisiana coast.
Fresh Fish (Cut or Whole)
Bonito
A favorite among Gulf Coast anglers, bonito is oily, bloody, and tough-skinned—perfect for sending out a scent trail and staying on the hook. Cut bonito chunks or whole fish are irresistible to large sharks.
Mullet
Abundant in Louisiana waters, mullet make excellent shark bait, whether used whole or in chunks. Their strong scent and availability make them a go-to choice, especially for bull sharks and blacktips.
Jack Crevalle
Often overlooked for table fare, jacks are tough, bloody, and fight hard—making them ideal for cut bait. Sharks love them, and their firm texture holds up well even in strong currents.
Mackerel
Known for their high oil content, both Spanish and king mackerel are top-tier baits. Cut mackerel puts out a powerful scent trail that can draw in sharks from a distance.
Pro Tip: Fresh bait is always better than frozen. Sharks can detect subtle differences in scent, and fresh fish offers a stronger, more natural trail.
Live Bait
Using live bait can trigger a shark’s predatory instincts more aggressively than cut bait. The erratic swimming of a distressed fish draws attention fast.
Blue Runners
These hardy, fast-moving fish are a top live bait choice. They stay lively on the hook and are commonly found offshore.
Ladyfish
Flashy and active, ladyfish make excellent live bait for nearshore and inshore shark fishing. They’re especially effective for species like spinner and blacktip sharks.
Live bait works best when fishing near reefs, rigs, or other structures where sharks are on the hunt. Use a circle hook and allow the bait to swim naturally to get the best results.
Scented and Oily Options
Sharks hunt with their noses, and oily fish are the best for creating a strong scent trail in the water.
Oily fish like mackerel, bonito, and sardines can be cut into chunks and dropped near your bait or used in a chum slick to draw sharks into the area. The stronger the smell, the better the odds.
Using a chum bag filled with fish scraps, ground-up bait, or commercial shark attractant can amplify your efforts. Drop it off the side of the boat and let the current do the work.
Unconventional or Specialty Baits
For anglers targeting truly massive sharks, sometimes it takes something out of the ordinary.
Stingray
Used by experienced shark hunters, stingray (cut or whole) can attract large species like hammerheads and tiger sharks. It’s tough, smelly, and stays on the hook well—but should be used responsibly, as rays are part of the local ecosystem.
Squid
Not the first choice for big sharks, but squid can be effective when fishing for smaller species or when other bait is scarce. It’s especially useful when paired with a stronger-scented bait in a double-hook rig.
Local Insight: What Works Best in Louisiana Waters
Louisiana’s coastline and offshore waters are prime territory for shark fishing, thanks to warm Gulf currents, abundant baitfish, and a wide variety of shark species.
Inshore Waters (Lake Pontchartrain, marshes, passes):
Bull sharks are the dominant predator here, especially during the warmer months. Captain Troy recommends using fresh cut mullet or jack crevalle for these aggressive feeders. Their strong scent and availability make them ideal for brackish water conditions. Ladyfish also work well in the passes where water movement is stronger and sharks are actively cruising.
Nearshore Gulf (up to 20 miles offshore):
Blacktip and spinner sharks are common in these waters. Here, live blue runners or chunked bonito are excellent choices. The movement of live bait gets quick attention, and bonito’s oiliness helps bring sharks in from a distance.
Offshore Trips (rips, rigs, and deepwater ledges):
Targeting hammerheads, tiger sharks, and massive bulls? You’ll need heavy-duty bait. Captain Troy often uses whole bonito, stingray, or large cut jack to tempt these monsters. He pairs these with a consistent chum slick to keep the sharks circling.
Captain’s Tip: “Fresh bait outperforms frozen bait every time. Sharks can smell the difference, especially in pressured areas. If you’re serious about catching big fish, use what’s swimming in the area that day.”
Bait Presentation Tips
Even the best bait won’t work if it’s presented poorly. Sharks are strong, fast, and not shy about striking—but they can be surprisingly picky if your setup isn’t right.
Use Strong, Sharp Hooks
Circle hooks are preferred because they reduce the risk of gut-hooking and make release easier. Size depends on the target species, but for most sharks in Louisiana waters, 8/0 to 14/0 circle hooks rigged with heavy mono or wire leader is the standard.
Rig with Wire Leader
Sharks have incredibly sharp teeth and can easily bite through standard line. Use a minimum of 3 feet of 100–200 lb wire leader, depending on the size of the shark you’re targeting.
Weight Your Bait Properly
Keep your bait at the right depth by adjusting the weight. In shallow inshore waters, a simple bottom rig works well. For offshore, use a float rig to suspend the bait at mid-depth or near the surface, especially if you’re using live bait.
Chumming Strategy
Chumming is essential in shark fishing. A slow, steady chum slick made from fish scraps or ground-up bait helps attract sharks from a distance. Keep the slick going once sharks arrive, but don’t overdo it—you want them hungry when they find your hook.
Avoid These Common Bait Mistakes:
- Using old or frozen bait – it might save money, but it reduces your chances.
- Not changing bait often enough – if it’s been soaking too long without action, swap it out.
- Incorrect hook placement – for cut bait, bury the hook securely but keep the point exposed. For live bait, hook through the nose or just behind the dorsal fin to allow natural swimming.
Gear and Safety Considerations
Shark fishing isn’t your average day on the water—it requires specialized gear and a healthy respect for the power of these incredible fish. Whether you’re going after smaller blacktips or monster hammerheads, being prepared makes all the difference. Of course, one of the advantages of booking a fishing charter is that all the gear is provided for you.
Heavy-Duty Rods and Reels
You’ll need a stout rod with a strong backbone and a high-capacity reel loaded with at least 80–100 lb braided line. Sharks can run hundreds of yards in seconds, so quality drag systems are essential.
Wire Leaders and Crimps
Don’t skimp on leaders. Use single-strand or multi-strand wire, rated for 100–400 lbs depending on your target species. Crimping instead of tying knots gives extra security.
Gaffs and Dehooking Tools
Landing a shark safely—both for you and the fish—requires the right tools. A long-handled dehooker, gaff, and even bolt cutters for cutting hooks are all essential. For catch-and-release, keeping the fish in the water and using barbless circle hooks can minimize harm.
Safety First
Sharks are powerful and unpredictable. Always:
- Keep hands and feet away from the water when baiting or handling fish.
- Use gloves when handling leaders.
- Never bring large sharks fully into the boat—secure them alongside if needed.
- Keep a first-aid kit onboard.
Captain’s Advice: “Respect the fish. Sharks are strong, and once you get them near the boat, things can get dangerous fast if you’re not paying attention.”
Booking a Shark Fishing Trip
If you’re serious about catching sharks in Louisiana, the best move is to go with a seasoned guide who knows the waters, the bait, and the behavior of local species. Captain Troy Wetzel offers fully guided shark fishing charters that are perfect for both beginners and hardcore anglers.
Ready to book your shark fishing adventure? Visit our booking page to check availability and reserve your spot today.
Conclusion
Shark fishing is one of the most exciting ways to experience the Gulf of Mexico—and the bait you choose plays a huge role in your success. From oily bonito and live blue runners to cut mullet and specialty baits like stingray, your options are wide-ranging, but knowing what works in Louisiana waters makes all the difference.
With the right bait, solid gear, and guidance from an expert, you’ll be well on your way to landing the catch of a lifetime.