Shortfin Mako

Overview

The shortfin mako is the fastest shark in the sea and one of the most spectacular big-game fish, capable of blistering runs and astonishing leaps. A prized offshore adversary, it is now also a species of serious conservation concern, so careful handling and release have become the norm.

Identification

Makos are sleek and metallic deep-blue above and white below, with a pointed snout, long slender teeth visible even when the mouth is closed, and a crescent tail. The vivid blue, pointed nose and needle teeth distinguish them from other sharks.

Range & Habitat

They roam warm and temperate open oceans worldwide, ranging along both US coasts over deep offshore water and following bait and warm currents.

Behavior & Diet

Makos are warm-blooded, high-speed predators that hunt tuna, mackerel, squid and other fast fish, striking hard and often leaping repeatedly when hooked.

Best Seasons

They are targeted offshore in the warm months when water temperatures and bait bring them within range of the coast.

How to Catch Them

Chumming and drifting rigged baits offshore, and trolling; a wire or heavy leader is essential against their teeth, and circle hooks aid clean releases.

Tackle & Rigs

Heavy offshore conventional gear, 50-130 lb class, wire or heavy-cable leaders and strong hooks for a fast, toothy heavyweight.

Landing, Handling & Release

Given their conservation status, most makos are released; keep the fish in the water, cut the leader, and never bring a green shark boatside. Their speed and teeth make them genuinely dangerous.

Table Quality

Mako is excellent, firm swordfish-like meat, but stocks are overfished and mercury is high, so harvest is heavily restricted and discouraged. The FDA's advice about eating fish puts shark among its highest-mercury "choices to avoid" for anyone who is or might become pregnant or is breastfeeding, and for young children.

Common Mistakes

Bringing a green, thrashing mako to the boat, and harvesting a species now under strict protection.

Regulations & Conservation

Shortfin mako are severely overfished and now largely protected, with retention prohibited or extremely restricted and a federal HMS permit required. Always confirm the current NOAA regulations - assume release-only unless you have verified otherwise. We do not give legal advice.

FAQ

Can I keep a mako? In most US waters retention is now prohibited - confirm the current rules and plan to release.

Fastest shark? Yes - capable of astonishing speed and leaps.