Dry Tortugas Game Fish: Billfish and Sharks

While Snapper & Grouper and other reef species are the main draw for many visiting anglers, the deeper waters around the Dry Tortugas are also home to some of the ocean’s most impressive apex predators: billfish and sharks. Targeting these powerful game fish is not a guaranteed part of every Dry Tortugas charter, as it requires specific conditions and dedicated effort, but the possibility of encountering them adds an extra layer of excitement to the trip.

Imagine the electrifying sight of a sailfish tailwalking across the water or the primal thrill of battling a powerful shark. These are the potential encounters when venturing into the Dry Tortugas’ blue waters in search of the ultimate game fish.

This guide discusses the possibility of encountering billfish and sharks in the Dry Tortugas area and the important regulations and considerations when targeting these species.

The Allure of Game Fish

Targeting billfish and sharks is about the challenge, the size, and the raw power of the fish.

• Billfish: Species like Sailfish, Marlin, and Swordfish are highly migratory pelagic fish known for their speed, acrobatic jumps, and impressive bills. They are often targeted primarily for sport, with catch-and-release being common practice.
• Sharks: A diverse group with immense strength and variety. From common reef sharks to large, offshore species, sharks provide an incredible fight. Regulations regarding shark fishing are complex and vary greatly by species.

For many anglers, the pursuit of these species begins in deeper water zones well beyond the reef line—something your Dry Tortugas fishing charter captain can help you navigate depending on the season and sea conditions.

Billfish Possibilities Near the Dry Tortugas

While the Dry Tortugas is not a top-tier billfish hotspot like some parts of the Caribbean or Pacific, it still sees migration patterns that bring these incredible fish into the area.

• Sailfish: The most likely billfish encounter. Sailfish are often found in shallower blue water and are known for their beautiful dorsal fin and spectacular jumps. Spring and fall migrations are the prime times for sailfish sightings.
• Blue Marlin / White Marlin: Less common near the Dry Tortugas, typically found further offshore in very deep current-driven water. Still, deeper drop-offs around the Tortugas can occasionally bring marlins into range.
• Swordfish: Primarily a deepwater, nocturnal species. Targeting them requires specialized equipment and overnight charters, which are less common but possible with some experienced captains.

Techniques for Billfish: Trolling with rigged dead bait (like ballyhoo) or artificial lures is the most common method. Sight fishing is also possible when fish surface.

If your main interest is billfish, check with your captain when you’re booking your Dry Tortugas trip — they’ll tell you if conditions and timing make it a viable target.

Shark Encounters and Targeting

Sharks are a much more common presence in Dry Tortugas waters, ranging from shallow reefs to offshore pelagic zones. Even if you’re not targeting them, you’re likely to encounter one while bottom fishing for reef species.

Common Species You Might Encounter:

• Blacktip Sharks & Spinner Sharks: Found in shallower areas, known for fast runs and aerial jumps.
• Bull Sharks: Powerful and aggressive, can show up both inshore and offshore.
• Reef Sharks: Often spotted on deeper reefs; includes Caribbean Reef Sharks and others.
• Hammerhead Sharks: Great Hammerheads are enormous and occasionally seen offshore.
• Tiger Sharks: Large, slow-moving predators more likely found near structure or in deeper water.
• Mako & Thresher Sharks: Rare but possible in deep pelagic zones.

Techniques for Sharks:

• Chumming: Creating a slick of scent to draw sharks closer is a common approach.
• Bottom Fishing: Many sharks are caught as bycatch while targeting species like grouper and snapper.
• Targeted Fishing: Involves heavy tackle and large bait, often suspended in the water column or set near the seafloor.

Critical Regulations and Considerations

Fishing for billfish and particularly sharks comes with very specific and important regulations in Florida waters.

• Billfish: There are size limits, mandatory use of circle hooks when fishing with natural bait, and general encouragement of catch-and-release. Your captain will guide you through proper technique.
• Sharks:
  • Prohibited Species: Florida law prohibits the harvest of numerous shark species. Anglers must be able to identify the shark before keeping one.
  • Bag and Size Limits: Even for legal species, strict limits apply.
  • Gear Requirements: Non-offset circle hooks and specific dehooking tools are mandatory when targeting sharks with natural bait.
  • Handling: Shark handling is a serious safety concern. These are large, powerful animals—always follow your captain’s instructions closely.
  • Barotrauma: Deepwater sharks may suffer from barotrauma when brought to the surface. Responsible captains will manage this to reduce harm during release.

Before targeting these species, take a moment to review our post on Dry Tortugas fishing regulations to get a sense of legal boundaries, especially inside protected areas like the Research Natural Area (RNA).

Catch and Release: A Conservation Priority

Given the conservation status of many shark species and the sport-first nature of billfishing, catch-and-release practices are not only encouraged—they’re often expected. Proper release technique protects the fish and ensures these epic creatures can fight another day.

If you’re new to handling gear or planning your first offshore trip, our Dry Tortugas gear checklist helps you show up prepared for the challenges these powerful fish present.

Targeting these apex predators is not for every angler — but for those ready for the challenge, the Dry Tortugas offers the thrilling possibility of fighting something truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a powerful shark or a sailfish exploding from the surface, your charter captain will ensure it’s done legally, safely, and with deep respect for the marine environment.

To learn more about what else you can target and when, explore our overview of fish species in the Dry Tortugas or return to the main Dry Tortugas Fishing Charter Guide for complete trip-planning information.