Bull Shark
Bull sharks are among Louisiana's most formidable predators, ranking as the most common inshore/nearshore shark in the northern Gulf, rivaled only by blacktip sharks.
These aggressive, stocky sharks are uniquely adapted to thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments, making them one of Louisiana's most widespread shark species.
Scientific Name: Carcharhinus leucas
Also known as thug of the shark world
- Can reach 11 feet long and weigh over 600 pounds, with their distinctive dull gray color, stubby body shape, and blunt nose.
Fishing in Louisiana
Red River
Lake Chicot
Mississippi River
Ouachita River
Kincaid Reservoir
Indian Creek Reservoir
Lake Buhlow
Cotile Lake
Lake Iatt
Calcasieu River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They've been documented as far up the Mississippi River as St.
- Louis, Missouri, and regularly inhabit the Atchafalaya River system as far as Simmesport.
- Louisiana's coastal waters serve as critical nursery areas for bull sharks, with Sabine Pass between Calcasieu Parish and Jefferson County, Texas identified as a major pupping ground used by hundreds of females annually.
Key Locations
- Lake Pontchartrain (Mandeville area), Lake St.
- Catherine area, Atchafalaya Basin, coastal marshes, marshes around Dulac, Venice area waters, Barataria Basin, Biloxi Marsh, and the extensive Atchafalaya Basin system.
Specific Spots
- Target deeper bayous, mouths of marsh creeks, and current edges where baitfish concentrate, particularly around structures where sharks ambush prey.
Bull Shark FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Bull Shark in Louisiana?
Fresh cut bait produces the best results, with bonito being particularly effective due to its oily, bloody nature and tough skin that stays on the hook well. Mullet, both whole and in chunks, works excellently, especially in brackish inshore waters.
When is the best time to fish for Bull Shark in Louisiana?
Late May through August, with peak action occurring during summer months. The most productive fishing occurs around the Mandeville area of Lake Pontchartrain starting in late May and continuing through August, with April action beginning in the Lake St. Catherine area.
How do you catch Bull Shark in Louisiana?
Productive techniques involve using bottom rigs in shallow inshore waters and float rigs to suspend bait at mid-depth offshore. Chumming with fish scraps or ground-up bait creates essential scent trails to attract sharks from distance. Maintaining a steady chum slick while keeping sharks hungry is crucial.
What do Bull Shark eat?
Bull sharks are opportunistic feeders with a diet consisting almost exclusively of fish, particularly preferring rays (including stingrays) and other sharks. In Louisiana waters, they commonly feed on ariid catfishes.
Where do Bull Shark live in Louisiana?
They've been documented as far up the Mississippi River as St. Louis, Missouri, and regularly inhabit the Atchafalaya River system as far as Simmesport.
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