Shark, H.H. – Smooth
Avg. Length
5-8ft
Avg. Weight
100-200lbs
World Record
363lbs
FL Record
n/a
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Sphyrna zygaena
Common Names
Common hammerhead
Description
The Smooth Hammerhead Shark takes its name from the absence of any indentations on its hammer shaped head. It is the second largest Hammerhead species and usually ranges from brown to dark green with a white belly. Occasionally the tips of the pectoral fins can be of a darker coloration.
Habitat & Behaviour
Smooth Hammerhead Sharks can often be found swimming in large groups near the surface in the open ocean. A migratory species they move towards colder water during the summer and return southward during the winter months. They can be found in shallower inshore waters when hunting.
Natural Prey
Depending on the size of the shark and the availability of food these sharks can eat other sharks and larger fish, skates and rays or smaller invertebrates.
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!
- Lucky Tackle Box
- Billfish Bounty in the Heart of the Mayan World – Guatemala
- The Best Species of Shark to Catch
- How to Catch a Shark: what equipment do you need?
- The Best Winter Fishing Spots in Texas