Each summer, local waters grow crowded with visitors eager to get a taste of the Shark fishing Ocean City MD is famous for. No species is more iconic when it comes to this sport than the mighty Mako Shark, the fastest swimming and hardest fighting specimen in all the seas. From nearshore fishing grounds to the deep canyons offshore, this is one bad boy you can count on for some blood-pumping action. Anglers frequently catch Tigers, Hammerheads, Threshers, Blues, Spinners, Blacktips, and plenty more around here. Even the magnificent Great White Shark is known to make an appearance on occasion. If battling apex predators from the deep sounds like a day well spent to you, Ocean City is right up your alley.

Ocean City Shark Fishing Hotspots

Local anglers have a variety of fishing grounds to choose from when they’re looking to hook into Sharks. A nearshore trip will take you 5-15 miles out, where you can find Hammerheads, Duskies, Atlantic Sharpnoses, Spinners, Blacktips, and Sandbars averaging 3-5 feet in length. Bigger Sharks also pay these waters a visit from time to time, including Makos, Threshers, and more. An area called “The Bass Grounds” (12 miles out) is one of the better-known nearshore hot spots for Shark fishing. The action this close to shore is best from June to October and makes for a great half day or full day trip.

Offshore Shark fishing sees a shorter season, but produces much bigger Sharks. Usually running from May through June, offshore trips to wrecks and canyons give you the chance to fish for large Makos, Hammerheads, Threshers, Tigers, Blues, and more. It’s common to catch Tuna, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and Bluefish on these trips, as well. Many of the best fishing grounds are at least 20-30 miles out, so plan on a full day or extended day trip (10+ hours) to get there. “Jackspot” (30 miles out) is one of the fishing grounds closer to shore, while most canyons lie well beyond 60 miles out. If you’re going hardcore, consider booking an overnight trip so you can make the most of MD’s deep sea battle grounds.

Need to Know

Most Shark fishing in Ocean City MD is limited catch and release, however it is legal to keep some species (depending on the size). Typically, anglers snap a quick photo with their catch before the captain releases it. In an effort to help studies in marine biology, some captains also tag Sharks and take a quick DNA sample before putting them back into the ocean. In general, you should not expect to keep any Sharks that you catch. If you would like to keep one, be sure to discuss this with the captain ahead of time.

Most local Shark fishing charters include licenses, bait, tackle, and everything else you need for a memorable experience. Just come aboard ready for the fight of your life!