Shark, Blacktip
Avg. Length
2-5ft
Avg. Weight
5-50lbs
World Record
270lbs 9oz
FL Record
152lbs
Scientific Name
Carcharhinus limbatus
Common Names
Small blacktip, Blacktip whaler, Common blacktip shark, Small blacktipped shark.
Description
The Blacktip Shark is characterized by its black tipped fins and bluish grey appearance with a white underside. They are also equipped with an arrow shaped head and powerful serrated teeth.
Habitat & Behaviour
Blacktip Sharks a usually found hanging around coastal features, seldom penetrating far into fresh water areas. These sharks are active hunters in schools and have been responsible for an occasional attack on humans. These sharks primarily stay in shallow waters but can be found offshore. Part of their frenzied feeding behavior involves attacking their prey from the depths and jumping out of the water.
Natural Prey
The Blacktip Shark has an expansive diet that includes many schooling fish, some smaller sharks and invertebrates such as cephalopods.
Handling Tips
It goes without saying that you should steer well clear of any sharks mouth. They also have rough skin which if whipped on you can leave a rash. Little ones wiggle a quite a bit, grab behind gills and hold tail. Larger sharks tail snare if you can and keep in water. When releasing sharks try to leave as little line as possible. Hooks rot out in a few weeks. Pro Angler supports shark conservation and recommends you catch and release. If brought into the boat, leave for 15-20 minutes before handling, shark will tire and be easier to handle as their body is very strong as well. Known to even play dead before snapping at you, so be careful! With this shark, after you a land it, cut the gills and the little urine pocket in the upper neck. This will make sure the shark's meat is good and not tasting of urine.
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