The Murrells Inlet in South Carolina is one of the most sought-after destinations for anglers looking for a thrilling shark-catching expedition. In fact, the habitat in & around Murrells Inlet like tidal creeks, and inlets, and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it very popular with sharks of varied species.
If you are someone who is enthusiastic about shark fishing trips then this is the perfect location for you as plenty of these apex predators roam the waters. In this article, we will help you with some practical tips to make your shark fishing trip a success.
Right Time & Location
Now, when you are embarking on a shark hunting trip then it is very important to choose the timing & location of your fishing trip because they have the potential to make or break your tour. Often it is seen that early morning and late evening is the best time for shark catching as they are very active in these low-light conditions.
In addition to that, there are certain locations in Murrells Inlet like the sandbars, drop-offs, and inlets that attract a lot of sharks because the baitfish gather in large numbers around these spots. In addition to that, you must fish around the piers & jetties as sharks are often seen in these places searching for food.
Furthermore, some professionals having years of experience in fishing recommend taking a look at the tide chart as going out fishing during the incoming or outgoing tides also increases your chances of getting a good catch. Besides that, if you are having the assistance of a local guide with you then you don’t have to worry about anything as they are well acquainted with the areas thronged by the sharks in large numbers.
Employ Proper Handling Techniques
Now, going on a shark fishing trip is completely different from your regular fishing tours because these apex predators are known for their strength and agility. That is why it is important to use proper handling techniques and you should keep your hands away from their jaws as a bite can lead to serious injuries.
Often people use a dehooking tool or pliers to help them safely remove the hook from the jaws of the shark without putting their life at risk. Upon catching if you are planning to release the shark back into the waters as some people do then you must keep it in the water as much as possible to reduce stress & injury.
Moreover, during the release process, you must ensure that the shark is upright and moving before you let it go and remember not to bring the shark above water if you are planning to release it. There might be some local laws & regulations regarding the handling & release of sharks & you must always stick to these rules.
Get Ready for The Fight
It is often said that shark fishing requires a lot of patience & endurance as they aren’t like the other fish and are known to put up an intense fight. Once the hook gets caught, the shark is going to make powerful runs which is going to test your strength & equipment.
You must learn the ways to keep a steady pressure on the fish & employ a strong, properly adjusted drag system to prevent your line from breaking. By staying calm you are increasing your chances of success in catching the sharks. Moreover, if you have your friends & family on board then you can ask them to assist you during the fight.
Besides that, you can also opt for a fighting belt or harness that helps in beating fatigue & also allows you to have strong control during the fight.
Follow Local Laws & Regulations
Before undertaking your shark-catching expedition it is important to get well acquainted with the local laws & regulations governing shark fishing in South Carolina. There are certain shark species that are protected and you must immediately release them after catching them.
Besides that, there is a requirement to use non-offset circle hooks in certain areas to promote ethical fishing practices. Furthermore, there might be some areas where shark fishing is completely restricted & this makes it important to follow the local guidelines for your safety & for local conservation efforts.
Finally
The above-discussed factors are some of the useful tips that you can follow while embarking on your shark fishing trip in Murrells Inlet. You can also take the help of local guides or your tour operator to make this exciting fishing trip a memorable one for times to come.
