Bonnethead Shark

*photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons (not used in the book)

(Sphyrna tiburo)

Even though they're small, bonnetheads can be some of the most enjoyable sharks to pursue on light tackle. They're definitely a warm-water species that will rarely be taken north of the Carolinas. South Florida is prime territory for these sharks in the winter months and anglers who really want some fun should consider pursuing them over the shallow flats down in the Keys.

Bonnetheads will feed on a variety of small fish and mollusks but they have a strong taste for shrimp and crabs. Anglers who fish the flats will often find these sharks very plentiful (sometimes in less than two feet of water) and have the opportunity to sight-cast shrimp, crabs or even flies to them.