Blue Shark

Overview

The blue shark is a sleek, deep-blue open-ocean wanderer, one of the most widespread sharks in the world and a common offshore catch on both coasts. Graceful and abundant, it provides steady offshore sport and is now most valued as a catch-and-release fish.

Identification

Blue sharks are unmistakably brilliant indigo-blue above, fading to white below, with a slim body, a long pointed snout, and very long scythe-like pectoral fins. The vivid blue color and long pectorals are the giveaways.

Range & Habitat

They roam temperate and tropical open oceans worldwide, ranging offshore over deep blue water along both US coasts.

Behavior & Diet

Blue sharks cruise the open ocean hunting squid and small fish, often gathering around chum slicks, and fight with a steady, twisting pull.

Best Seasons

Targeted offshore in the warm months when they move within range along the coasts.

How to Catch Them

Chumming and drifting baits offshore draws them to the boat, where they take rigged fish and squid baits; a wire leader is essential.

Tackle & Rigs

Medium-heavy offshore conventional gear, 30-50 lb class, wire leaders and circle hooks for easy release.

Landing, Handling & Release

Most blue sharks are released; keep them in the water, use a dehooker or cut the leader, and handle carefully. They are abundant but slow to mature.

Table Quality

Blue shark is generally considered poor eating and high in mercury, so it is a release fish, not table fare.

Common Mistakes

Fishing without a wire leader and mishandling a twisting shark at the boat.

Regulations & Conservation

Managed with shark size, bag and permit rules; a federal HMS permit is required and release is encouraged. Always confirm the current regulations before fishing. We do not give legal advice.

FAQ

Good to eat? Not really - poor quality and high mercury; release them.

How do I ID one? Brilliant blue with a slim body and very long pectoral fins.