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Expert-Guided Cape May Shark Fishing | Catterman
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Cape May, NJ
- $425 - $750 price range
Summary
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Nighttime Shark Action
Mastering the art of surf casting in the iconic Cape May waters!
Sunset Fishing In Delaware!
Reel Fun Fishing In Delaware!
Shark Adventures IN Delaware Bay!
Mastering the art of surf casting in the iconic Cape May waters!
Sunset Fishing In Delaware!
Reel Fun Fishing In Delaware!
Shark Adventures IN Delaware Bay!
Mastering the art of surf casting in the iconic Cape May waters!
Sunset Fishing In Delaware!
Reel Fun Fishing In Delaware!
Shark Adventures IN Delaware Bay!
Night Shark Fishing in Cape May: 8-Hour Adventure
Get ready for a night of excitement on the shores of Cape May, NJ with our 8-hour land-based shark fishing trip. As a local guide, I can tell you there's nothing quite like the rush of hooking into a big shark from the beach. We'll set up camp as the sun goes down, and spend the evening waiting for that heart-pounding moment when your line starts screaming. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, this trip offers a unique chance to tangle with some of the ocean's top predators right from the sand.
What's the Deal?
Here's the lowdown on our Cape May shark fishing adventure. We kick off in the evening, setting up our spot on one of Jersey's most beautiful beaches. Don't sweat the gear - we've got you covered with all the heavy-duty rods, reels, and tackle you'll need to battle big sharks. Our seaside setup is pretty sweet, too. We've got a mosquito-proof shelter that'll keep the bugs at bay, and comfy beach chairs so you can relax while waiting for the action. As night falls, we'll cast our lines into the surf and play the waiting game. But trust me, when that reel starts singing, you'll be wide awake and ready for the fight of your life.
Beach Fishing 101
If you've never tried surf fishing for sharks before, you're in for a treat. We use specialized surf casting techniques to get our baits way out past the breakers where the big boys swim. The rods are heavy-duty, designed to handle the weight of big shark baits and the power of a hard-fighting fish. We'll show you how to read the beach, looking for cuts in the sand and rip currents where sharks like to hunt. Once we're set up, it's all about patience and being ready to spring into action. When a shark takes the bait, you'll need to set the hook hard and hang on tight. These aren't your average fish - they'll give you a workout and memories that'll last a lifetime.
Target Species
Dusky Smooth-Hound: These guys are like the puppy dogs of the shark world. They're smaller than some of their cousins, usually topping out around 4 feet, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers. Smooth-hounds are known for their pack mentality, so when you hook one, there's a good chance more are nearby. They put up a scrappy fight on lighter tackle and are most active in the warmer months. Anglers love targeting smooth-hounds because they're abundant and make for great catch-and-release action.
Southern Stingray: While not a shark, these flat pancake-shaped creatures are a blast to catch from the beach. They can grow up to 5 feet across and when hooked, they use their wide wings to stick to the bottom like suction cups. It's a unique fight that'll test your patience and skill. Stingrays are most active in the summer and early fall. Remember, we always handle these guys with care, respecting that tail barb, and release them quickly.
Spinner Shark: Now we're talking some real acrobats of the sea. Spinners get their name from their habit of leaping out of the water and spinning in the air when hooked. They're fast, powerful, and can grow up to 9 feet long. Hooking into a spinner is like hitting the jackpot - they'll take you on a wild ride with long runs and those signature aerial displays. These sharks are most common in the warmer months and put up one heck of a fight.
Sandbar Shark: These are the workhorses of our shark fishing trips. Sandbars, also known as brown sharks, are common along the Jersey coast and can reach lengths of up to 8 feet. They're known for their strong, steady fights and are often caught closer to shore than some other species. Sandbar sharks are around most of the year but are especially active in the spring and fall. They're a protected species, so it's catch-and-release only, but the thrill of landing one of these powerful fish is unforgettable.
Blacktip Shark: Last but not least, the blacktip shark. These guys are like the sports cars of the shark world - fast, agile, and known for their spectacular leaps when hooked. They average around 5-6 feet in length but fight well above their weight class. Blacktips are summer visitors to our waters, following the bait fish schools. When you hook one, be ready for screaming runs and maybe even a few jumps. They're a favorite among shark anglers for their energetic fights and good looks.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's something special about shark fishing from the beach that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the primal thrill of connecting with these ancient predators, or the peaceful moments watching the stars while waiting for that big hit. Our setup is designed for comfort, so you can relax and enjoy the evening even when the fishing's slow. And when it's on, well, there's nothing quite like the rush of battling a shark in the surf. Plus, with dinner included, you don't have to worry about going hungry while you wait for the big one.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're looking for a fishing trip that's off the beaten path, our Cape May land-based shark fishing adventure is hard to beat. It's a chance to experience the thrill of big game fishing without ever leaving the shore. We've got all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots dialed in. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a camera to capture the moment when you land that monster from the deep. Spots are limited to keep the experience personal, so don't wait to book your trip. Get ready for a night of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come!
Learn more about the animals
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip Sharks are known for their energetic behavior and tendency to jump when hooked. They average 4-5 feet long but can reach up to 9 feet. You'll often find them in shallow coastal waters, especially around river mouths and estuaries. Summer is prime Blacktip season here in Cape May. Anglers love targeting them for their acrobatic fights and good eating quality. When one goes airborne, it's a sight you won't forget! To catch Blacktips, use medium-heavy tackle with 30-50 pound line. A fish-finder rig with wire leader and circle hook works well. Fresh cut bait like mullet or mackerel is ideal. Chum to bring them in close, then cast your baits into the slick. My top tip is to look for diving birds and bait schools - Blacktips often feed in a frenzy near the surface. Be ready for fast runs and jumps when you hook up. These sharks fight hard from start to finish!
Dusky Smooth-Hound
Dusky Smooth-hounds are small, slender sharks averaging around 4 feet long. They're bottom-dwellers, usually hanging out in shallow waters less than 60 feet deep. You'll find them cruising sandy areas looking for crabs and other crustaceans to crush with their flat teeth. These sharks put up a decent fight for their size, but they're not known for being aggressive. Summer and early fall are prime times to target Dusky Smooth-hounds here in Cape May. Folks enjoy catching them because they're pretty common and make for good eating. Plus, they're a great introduction to shark fishing without the intimidation factor of bigger species. To land one, try using strips of mackerel or squid on the bottom. A long leader with a circle hook works well. My top tip is to look for them around structure like jetties or reefs where they hunt for food. Be patient - they're not the fastest biters, but once hooked they'll give you a fun tussle on light tackle.
Sandbar Shark
Sandbar Sharks are one of the bigger coastal sharks we see, with females reaching up to 8 feet. They're heavy-bodied with a tall dorsal fin. You'll find them cruising deeper waters near drop-offs and sandy areas. These sharks are most active here in the warmer months. Anglers enjoy targeting them for their size and strong fighting ability. While not as acrobatic as some species, Sandbars will give you a serious workout on the rod. To catch one, you'll need heavy tackle - at least 50-pound class gear. Use a fish-finder rig with a large circle hook and wire leader. Fresh cut bait like bluefish or mackerel works well. Drop your bait near structure in 60-200 feet of water. Here's a local tip - look for areas where the bottom transitions from sand to rock or reef. Sandbars often hunt along these edges. Be patient, as they can be slow to commit to the bait. Once hooked though, get ready for a long, powerful fight.
Southern Stingray
Southern Stingrays are kite-shaped bottom-dwellers that can grow pretty big - females get up to about 5 feet across. You'll find them lurking in the sandy shallows and mudflats, often partially buried. They use those "wings" to uncover small fish, crustaceans, and worms to eat. These rays are most active in warmer months when the water heats up. Anglers like targeting them for the unique challenge and powerful fight they put up. Just watch out for that venomous barb on the tail! To catch one, use a sturdy rod with at least 30-pound test line. Rig up with a fish finder slide and circle hook, baited with cut mullet or squid. Cast out and let it sit on the bottom. When you feel a hit, give it a few seconds before setting the hook. Southern Rays will often pick up the bait and move before fully committing. Here's a local trick - try chumming with some crushed crab or shrimp to draw them in. Once hooked, be ready for some serious pulling. These flat pancakes can really dig in!
Spinner Shark
Spinner Sharks are known for their acrobatic feeding displays, leaping and spinning out of the water. They average 6-7 feet long and put up an exciting fight. You'll find them cruising in schools near the surface, often chasing bait fish. Late spring through summer is prime time for Spinners here off Cape May. Anglers love targeting them for their aerial antics and strong runs. It's a real thrill when one goes airborne on the hook! To catch Spinners, use medium-heavy tackle with 50-pound braid. Live bait like mullet or bluefish works great. Chum to bring them close, then cast live baits or large lures into the frenzy. When you hook up, hang on tight - these sharks will make blistering runs and often jump repeatedly. My top tip is to watch for birds working the water. That usually means there's bait around, and Spinners won't be far behind. Be ready to move quickly to stay on the schools.
