Grab your gear and get ready for some serious shark action off the Bolivar Peninsula. This ain't your average fishing trip - we're talking six full hours of targeting some of the biggest, baddest sharks the Gulf Coast has to offer. Perfect for experienced anglers looking to test their mettle against apex predators, this charter is all about the thrill of the fight. With room for up to 10 of your fishing buddies, it's a great way to spend a day on the water with family, friends, or your go-to fishing crew. Captain Steve Callaway and his team know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're here to put you on the fish and make sure you have a safe, unforgettable day chasing monsters.
This trip is designed for folks who know their way around a rod and reel. We're not messing around with small fry here - we're after the big boys. You'll be using heavy-duty gear capable of handling sharks that can top 500 pounds or more. Don't worry about bringing your own equipment; we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go. Captain Steve and the crew will be right there with you, offering tips on technique and helping you land these powerful fish. The Bolivar Peninsula provides the perfect backdrop for some epic battles, with its mix of shallow flats and deeper channels where sharks love to hunt. Be prepared for a workout - these fish don't give up easily, and the fights can last anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour for the real monsters.
Shark fishing is a whole different ballgame compared to your typical inshore or offshore trips. We use a technique called "chumming" to attract sharks to the boat. This involves creating a slick of fish oils and pieces that draws sharks from a wide area. Once we've got their attention, we'll set out large baits - often whole fish or big chunks - on heavy-duty circle hooks. The waiting game begins, but when that reel starts screaming, you better be ready! We practice catch-and-release for most sharks, using special hooks that rust out quickly if we can't remove them. It's all about conservation and making sure these awesome predators are around for future generations to enjoy. You'll learn how to safely handle and release these powerful fish, getting up close and personal with some of the ocean's most impressive creatures.
Blacktip Shark: These speedsters are known for their acrobatic jumps and hard fights. Averaging 4-5 feet long, blacktips are common in the Gulf and provide non-stop action. They're most abundant from spring through fall, with peak season in the summer months. Anglers love targeting blacktips because they're relatively abundant and put up a great fight on medium-heavy tackle.
Bull Shark: When it comes to power, few sharks can match the bull. These stocky brutes can reach lengths of 8 feet or more and are known for their aggressive nature. Bulls are year-round residents in the Gulf, but they're especially active in the warmer months. Landing a big bull shark is a true test of an angler's skill and strength - these fish will make you earn every inch of line.
Tiger Shark: The tiger shark is the holy grail for many shark anglers. These massive predators can grow to over 14 feet long and are known for their distinctive stripes. While less common than some other species, hooking into a tiger shark is an experience you'll never forget. They're most often encountered in the warmer months and prefer slightly deeper water. Tigers are known for their powerful runs and ability to wear down even the most experienced anglers.
Smooth Hammerhead: With their distinctive T-shaped heads, hammerheads are some of the most recognizable sharks in the ocean. The smooth hammerhead is more common in our waters than its larger cousin, the great hammerhead. These sharks typically range from 8-11 feet long and are known for their speed and agility. Hammerheads tend to show up in our area during the spring and fall migrations, offering a unique opportunity for anglers to tangle with these fascinating creatures.
Redfish: While not a shark, redfish (also known as red drum) are a popular target for anglers in the Gulf. These copper-colored beauties can grow to over 40 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. We often encounter redfish while shark fishing, especially in the shallower areas. They're a year-round target, but the fall "bull red" run is especially exciting, with huge schools of oversized reds cruising the coast.
There's something addictive about shark fishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the raw power you feel when that reel starts screaming and you know you're connected to a true apex predator. Or perhaps it's the rush of adrenaline as you watch a massive dorsal fin cutting through the water, heading straight for your bait. For many, it's the challenge - pitting your skills and strength against some of the ocean's most formidable opponents. Whatever the reason, once you've experienced the thrill of shark fishing off the Bolivar Peninsula, you'll be hooked for life. Our repeat customers tell us they love the variety of species we encounter, the knowledge they gain from our experienced crew, and the chance to create lasting memories with friends and family.
If you're ready to test your skills against some of the Gulf's most impressive predators, it's time to lock in your shark fishing adventure. This 6-hour trip offers plenty of time to get into some serious action, with the expertise of Captain Steve and his crew to maximize your chances of success. Remember, we can accommodate up to 10 anglers, so it's perfect for a group outing or a family adventure. All the gear is provided, so you just need to bring your game face and be ready for some intense fishing. Don't forget, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're committed before you book. Whether you're a seasoned shark angler or looking to cross this epic experience off your bucket list, our Galveston Shark Fishing Charter is the way to go. Get in touch today and let's start planning your ultimate shark fishing adventure on the Bolivar Peninsula!
Blacktip sharks are one of our most common catches, usually 4-5 feet long but can reach up to 9 feet. They're known for their acrobatic leaps and strong runs. You'll find them in the shallows, often around 30-100 feet deep near reefs or structures. Blacktips are most active in warmer months, especially during bait migrations. Anglers love targeting them for their scrappy fight and the thrill of seeing them jump. To hook one, try drifting live bait like mullet or using cut mackerel. My top tip: Watch for birds diving - blacktips often push bait to the surface. When you see that, it's time to cast. Remember, these sharks can get pretty excited during a feeding frenzy, so stay alert!
Bull sharks are the bruisers of our shark fishing trips, usually 8-10 feet long and built like tanks. They're unique in their ability to tolerate freshwater, so you might find them anywhere from the open Gulf to far up coastal rivers. Bulls are around year-round but are most active in warmer months. Anglers love targeting them for their raw power and aggressive strikes. These sharks will test your gear and your stamina. For bait, nothing beats a fresh-cut mullet or ladyfish. My pro tip: fish the tide changes, especially in areas where freshwater meets salt. That's when bulls are often on the move, looking for an easy meal. Just remember, these sharks earned their name - they can be unpredictable, so always stay alert when handling them.
Redfish are a prized catch along the Gulf Coast, known for their distinctive black spot near the tail. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-30 inches, but can grow much larger. You'll find them in shallow waters, often tailing in just a foot or two of water around oyster reefs and grass flats. They put up a great fight and make excellent table fare. Late summer through fall is prime time, when big schools move into the shallows to feed. Anglers love sight-casting to visible fish. For best results, work a gold spoon or soft plastic slowly along the bottom. My top tip: On windy days, look for them tucked up against shorelines where bait gets pushed.
Smooth hammerheads are an exciting shark to target, averaging 8-11 feet long. Unlike other hammerheads, they prefer cooler waters and often swim near the surface. You'll find them around the Bolivar Peninsula from late spring through fall, when they follow bait schools inshore. These sharks put up a heck of a fight and can make impressive jumps. Chumming is key - use oily fish like mackerel or bonito to get them fired up. Once hooked, be ready for long runs. Smooth hammerheads have excellent eyesight, so use fluorocarbon leaders. My go-to rig is a whole bonito on a 16/0 circle hook. These sharks are catch-and-release only, but make for some great photos and stories.
Tiger sharks are the heavyweights of our shark fishing, growing up to 14 feet and 1,400 pounds. They're unmistakable with their blunt snouts and tiger-like stripes. You'll find them in deeper coastal waters, but they'll come in shallower to feed. Summer's your best bet, when warm currents bring them closer. Anglers love tigers for their size and power - hooking one is like fighting a submarine. They'll eat almost anything, so big baits work well. Try a whole bonito or large chunk of tuna. My secret weapon is using an oily fish like mackerel in the chum slick. Be patient though, tigers are often slow and cautious when approaching bait. Once hooked, hang on tight and be ready for a long battle.