Shrimp Boat Shark Fishing

Chumming the Waters: Shark Fishing Behind Shrimp Boats with Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters

If you've never experienced the thrill of shark fishing behind a working shrimp boat, then you're missing one of the most exciting, high-adrenaline adventures the Lowcountry has to offer. With Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters, you're not just casting a line — you're tapping into a centuries-old cycle of predator and prey, right off the coast of Folly Beach, South Carolina.

Why Follow the Shrimp Boats?

Shrimp boats are like floating buffets for sharks. As the trawl nets drag along the seafloor, they not only scoop up shrimp but also disturb and discard bycatch — small fish, crustaceans, and other marine life that get tossed overboard. This chum slick creates a powerful scent trail that attracts hungry sharks from miles around.

Captain John knows how to position his bay boat just right behind these working vessels, drifting silently in the shark highway. It’s not uncommon to see blacktip sharks, Atlantic sharpnose, spinners, and even the occasional bull shark circling just beneath the surface, waiting for an easy meal.

Gear Up for Battle

Captain John equips his clients with stout rods, heavy-duty reels, and wire leaders — because when a 5-foot blacktip hits your bait, you’ll need every bit of strength and gear to turn its head. Baits are typically fresh chunks of bonito, menhaden, or whatever is readily available — the bloodier, the better.

Many of these sharks will make fast, aggressive runs and even leap from the water in a show of power that rivals any offshore species. The action can be fast-paced, with multiple hookups at once when the bite turns on.

Family-Friendly and Educational

Though it’s high-energy fishing, Captain John keeps it fun and safe for anglers of all experience levels. Families often get to witness firsthand the raw power of the ocean’s apex predators, and kids especially light up when they see a shark boatside.

Captain John also takes the time to educate guests about shark species, conservation practices, and the importance of maintaining healthy shark populations. Most trips are catch-and-release, especially for species that are protected or not ideal for eating.

Best Time of Year

Summer and early fall are prime time, when shrimping season is in full swing and shark numbers peak in the inshore and nearshore waters. Morning

trips are often best, when the shrimpers are already on the move and the water is still relatively calm.

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Final Thought

Shark fishing behind the shrimp boats isn’t your typical charter. It’s gritty, raw, and thrilling. If you're looking to experience the wild side of the Charleston coast, book a trip with Captain John of Folly Beach Fishing Charters and get ready to chase down some toothy legends.

Call today or book online to reserve your seat on one of the most exciting shark-fishing adventures Folly Beach has to offer