Are there sharks in the Gulf of Mexico? Sharks thrive in the Gulf and every ocean worldwide. Boating enthusiasts, beachgoers, residents, and tourists alike can take advantage of spotting some of the most common species throughout the Gulf.
What Is the Truth Behind Sharks in the Gulf?
Sharks are an important part of the Gulf’s natural ecosystem. Unfortunately, they tend to have a bad reputation among the general public. People see them as voracious predators hungry for all forms of meat, including human flesh.
Sharks do not naturally attack humans. Most shark bites occur because of poor visibility in the water and because sharks are curious. Since they only have their mouths to explore the world, most bites occur as inquisitive bites.
Sharks have a diverse population, with over 500 species worldwide. Of those 500 species, only three are responsible for the most bites.
What Sharks Are in the Gulf of Mexico?
What sharks are in the Gulf of Mexico? As one of the largest bodies of water in the world, at over 600,000 square miles, the Gulf of Mexico is home to a variety of marine life. There are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, around 24 species.
We narrowed down some of the most infamous shark species.
Atlantic Blacktip Shark
Named for its black-tipped dorsal, pectoral, and tail fins, the Atlantic blacktip is a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) success story. In the 1990s, NOAA had to implement restrictions on fisheries due to overfishing. The blacktip rebounded, with four times as many as before.
To distinguish the Atlantic blacktip from other sharks with black-tipped fins, such as the spinner shark, look for a white anal fin. Often, people will spot blacktips leaping from the water as they hunt for schools of fish.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
The Atlantic sharpnose is one of the most common Gulf sharks. They are relatively small, ranging from two and a half to three feet long, and pose little threat to humans. When looking out for the Atlantic sharpnose, look for its gray and brown coloring, white dots, slender body, and pointed snouts. While these sharks will come closer to shore in the late spring and early summer to birth live young, they live and feed at multiple depths.
Tiger Shark
Young tiger sharks famously have dark vertical stripes along their bodies. You should remember this because there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, and given the tiger shark’s curious nature, it sometimes swims close to humans. While shark bites are uncommon, the tiger shark has a bite history, second only to the great white shark. Most shark bites, however, do not occur as random attacks. Typically, attacks happen because humans attempt to feed the sharks.
Due to overfishing, tiger sharks are endangered and protected.
Hammerhead Shark
The hammerhead is one of the most famous shark species in the Gulf of Mexico. Multiple species of hammerheads, including great hammerheads, bonnetheads, and scalloped hammerheads, make the Gulf home.
The great hammerhead is a large shark, with some reaching up to 20 feet. You can identify these renowned sharks by the shape of their head, with their nostrils and eyes positioned on either side of a hammer-shaped head. Hammerheads stay close to the seafloor, feeding on catfish, groupers, and stingrays. While there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, the great hammerhead is a critically endangered species.
Bull Shark
Bull sharks thrive in various environments, including fresh and saltwater. They travel wherever they can find prey, including dolphins, fish, turtles, and other sharks. These medium-sized sharks can reach about 11 feet long and have small snouts reminiscent of a bull’s nose.
Swimmers and beachgoers should watch out for bull sharks, which tend to swim close to the shore and in shallow water to search for food.
FAQs About Gulf Sharks
The Gulf of Mexico is a thriving ecosystem for various sea life, including sharks. To live in harmony with the sharks and mitigate any danger helps to understand their movements and habits.
Do Sharks Swim Close to the Shore in the Gulf of Mexico?
Yes, sharks can swim close to the shore. Some shark species thrive in shallow waters and perform most of their hunting near shore. Others, like the Atlantic Blacktip shark, give birth in shallow water.
Are There Great Whites in the Gulf of Mexico?
Yes, there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, including great white sharks. Following a dramatic decline, marine biologists restored the great white shark population. Now, biologists believe that at least half of the tens of thousands of great white sharks spend their summers on the East Coast and winters in the Gulf of Mexico. Fortunately, great white sharks remain farther from shore than other, smaller species.
Has There Ever Been a Shark Attack in the Gulf of Mexico?
While there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico and attacks have occurred, they are uncommon. For example, in Florida, the International Shark Attack File claims that there have been 15 recorded attacks. Even when it comes to attacks that have happened, no one has died from a shark attack in 131 years.
What Should You Do if You See a Shark?
If you see a shark while enjoying your day at the beach, try not to fret. If you see a shark swim towards you, stay calm and safely swim. Never flail or panic, as this may draw unwanted attention from the shark.
Do You Need a Boat License for Shark Fishing or Watching?
You need a boat license to operate personal watercraft, boats with motors over 15 horsepower, and sailboats longer than 14 feet.
Adventure With Sharks By Day and Protect Your Boat By Night
Boating on the Gulf of Mexico will allow you to witness marine life. This can be especially thrilling, considering there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico. However, when it comes time to dock, you need a marina to call home. Boat Stop Marina, located in the heart of Corpus Christi, promises luxury and security at our facility.
Our marina offers a 45-foot dual launch ramp, dock power receptacles, and access to the Intracoastal waterway. Enjoy your day, and trust we will keep your boat safe at night. To find out more about our membership options, contact Boat Stop Marina today!