Cole Catches a Bonnet Head Shark on Bear River: A Fishing Adventure
Jeff Rickard
It was a sunny day on the Bear River, a stretch of water that often serves as a quiet escape from the usual hustle. Jeff and I set out with the simple goal of a day well-spent fishing—little did we know, our plans were about to take a rather interesting turn.
As we cast our lines into the water, it felt like any other day, the anticipation hanging thick in the air. I glanced at Cole, my partner-in-crime, who was grinning ear to ear as he reeled in what turned out to be a Bonnethead shark. Yes, you read that right—a shark! Right here in our backyard, living the dream, making me reconsider the choices that led me to this very moment.
Gear That Made the Catch Possible
Pocket Telescopic Fishing Rod: We relied on this versatile portable fishing rod for easy transport and surprising strength when the shark struck.
Adjustable Fishing Chair: Between battles, we kicked back in our lightweight outdoor chair, keeping cool and comfortable on the riverbank.
Foldable Barbecue Grill: After releasing our shark, we fired up this sturdy, foldable grill to cook red drum fillets fresh from the catch.
Why We Released the Bonnethead
Bonnethead sharks are small—rarely over four feet—and part of the hammerhead family. Though shark meat can be a delicacy (often sold as “dogfish” in fish & chips), it must be prepared immediately to avoid spoilage. We chose release over retain: common sense—and respect for Bear River’s ecosystem—won out.
Tips for Bear River Shark Fishing
Strong Tackle & Sharp Hooks: Heavy-duty rods and reels, plus long leaders and circle hooks, minimize break-offs.
Fresh, Odorous Bait: Live mullet or mackerel are irresistible to inshore sharks.
Comfort & Convenience: A portable chair and cooler keep you patient and well-provisioned.
Pack a Grill: Celebrate any catch—real or “red drum rescue”—with the foldable barbecue grill.
Continue Your Inshore Fishing Education
Line-Tangle Fixes: Learn to untangle knotted lines in our Tangled Redfish guide.
Pier Shark Thrills: For open-ocean shark battles, check out Tybee Island Pier shark fishing.
Conclusion
Cole’s bonnethead shark on Bear River was proof that the best fishing stories spring from the unexpected. With proper gear, fresh bait, and a conservation mindset, every riverbank outing can turn legendary. Ready to share your Bear River catch? Share your adventure, contact us for local tips, or book your next trip with Let’s Go Wander ’Bout. You can plan your fishing trips with FishingBooker to make it hassle-free.
Want to see how our adventure went? Check out the video below: