Species guide

How to catch Nurse shark

Ginglymostoma cirratum

Stylized 2D illustration of Nurse shark
brackishsaltwatergame fishGinglymostomatidae

The nurse shark is a slow-moving, solitary shark commonly found resting on the sea bottom. It inhabits shallow sand flats, channels, and coral reefs, often near mangroves as juveniles. Known for its elongated body, it feeds on a variety of marine animals.

Where they live

Inhabits shallow sand flats, channels, and coral reefs across the Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and coastal North America in brackish and saltwater environments. Found from the surface down to 130 meters.

Typical size

Up to about 430 cm

What they eat

  • small fish
  • crustaceans
  • mollusks
  • worms

Best baits

  • fish chunks
  • shrimp
  • squid

Best lures

  • bottom rigs
  • soft plastic baits

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • drift fishing

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How to catch Nurse shark | Bobbr