Bonnethead Shark

Other names: Bonnethead, Shovelhead

The bonnethead shark, Sphyrna tiburo, is a small hammerhead species found in the western Atlantic and eastern Pacific. It has a distinctive shovel-shaped head and is commonly found in coastal areas. This shark is valued both for commercial fisheries and recreational fishing.

Length
~85 (max 150)
Weight
~5 (max 10)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
15-28° F
Depth
10-80 ft

Other names
Bonnethead, Shovelhead
Length
~85 (max 150)
Weight
~5 (max 10)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
15-28° F
Depth
10-80 ft

Popular lures for Bonnethead Shark

Blue Crabs

Crabs

Cut Bait (Fish)

Mullet

Peeler crabs

Shrimp

Squid strips

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Regulation for Bonnethead Shark

Check all regulations in DE

Season
Always open
Bag limit
1
Vessel limit
1
Trophy limits
-
Max size
-
Min size
No
Measurement
-
Prohibited methods
-

Check all regulations in DE

Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Found in shallow coastal waters, including estuaries and bays
- Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms
- Often inhabits coral reefs and seagrass beds
- Feeds primarily on crustaceans, bivalves, octopi, and small fish
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- The shark is viviparous
- Females give birth to 6-9 pups per litter
- Spawning occurs in specific shallow habitats
- Exhibits sexual segregation and diel rhythm of activity