Sandbar Shark
Sandbar Shark
Carcharhinus plumbeus
Sand Shark, Brown Shark
Life History
Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: The first dorsal fin is large, triangular, and originates over or slightly before the pectoral insertion. The pectoral fins are large and broad. It has a snout that is shorter than the width of the mouth. The color is brownish-gray or brown above and white below. It does have an interdorsal ridge.
Size: Can get up to about 8 feet.
Age at Maturity: Males reach maturity between 4-5½ ft while females mature at 4½-5½ ft.
Range: From Cape Cod to Florida, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Habitat: Inshore shallow coastal waters, including bays, harbors, and estuaries; typically in waters from 5-180 ft deep but can be found offshore occasionally to possibly 810 ft. They are bottom dwelling.
Angling Information
Bait and Tackle: Fresh, dead fish or stingray wings make good bait. Heavy spinning and baitcasting, surf rods, light to medium ocean gear can all be used.
Fishing Method: Still fishing, drifting
Food Value: Good
State Regulation
Daily Limit: No Harvest
