Species guide

How to catch Shortfin mako

Isurus oxyrinchus

Stylized 2D illustration of Shortfin mako
saltwatergame fishLamnidae

The Shortfin mako is a powerful, fast shark known for its streamlined body and impressive speed. It is a highly prized game fish for its challenging fight and remarkable leaping ability. This species inhabits temperate and tropical waters worldwide, especially in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Where they live

Found on the continental shelf in saltwater regions, chiefly throughout the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. It occupies depths from surface waters down to nearly 900 meters.

Typical size

Up to about 445 cm

What they eat

  • small to medium fishes
  • squid
  • anchovies
  • billfish
  • Carangidae species
  • ling

Best baits

  • large fish chunks
  • fresh squid
  • live baitfish

Best lures

  • large trolling plugs
  • deep diving hardbaits
  • heavy jigs

How to fish for them

  • trolling
  • live bait fishing
  • deep drop casting

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How to catch Shortfin mako | Bobbr