Shark, Shortfin Mako
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
6-9ft
Avg. Weight
200-600lbs
World Record
1221lbs
FL Record
911lbs 12oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Isurus oxyrinchus
Common Names
Bonito shark, Blue pointer, Dog shark, Short-nosed mackerel shark, Makos, Shortfins, Mackerel sharks, Blue dynamites, Bonitos, Spriglios, Palomas
Description
The Shortfin Mako Shark is characterized by their greyish blue coloration located on their back. This coloration blends to a light blue on the sides and a whiter coloration on its underside. It also comes equipped with a half circle shaped tail, a highly pointed nose and a first dorsal fin located just behind the pectoral fins. Its teeth allow it to be distinguished from other sharks as they are not serrated.
Habitat & Behaviour
Not to be confused with the often encountered Longfin Mako, the Shortfin Mako can be found in most temperate open ocean waters and often adapts in maturity to cooler waters. It’s adaptability to cooler waters allows this shark to be widely distributed throughout the Atlantic.
Natural Prey
The Shortfin Mako Shark can be found chasing and devouring speedy prey. However, they also enjoy other sharks, cephalopods, fish and the occasional sea turtle or porpoise.
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!
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