Mako, also known as mako shark, blue pointer, and bonito shark, is one of the most sought-after sharks by anglers because of its topnotch navigational speed and phenomenal fighting abilities. Get to know these speedy sharks by reading below!
Getting to Know Mako Sharks
The mako is a member of the shark family, and it is known to be the fastest shark species reaching speeds of above 47 mph. The mako has the largest brain-to-body ratio and sharpest teeth of any shark family. According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the mako is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and regulated by the authorities. Mako shark populations are below target levels because of previous overfishing incidents but worry no more, mako fishing is now well-regulated.
This fish is characterized by having a very pointy snout and long gill slits just like many of its shark siblings. The fish also has dark blue or gray backs, light metallic blue sides, and white undersides, which is again, almost the same as its other shark siblings like the blue shark. The mako shark is capable of growing to 12 to 13 feet and reaching massive weights of at least 545 kg (0.54 tons). The mako is known to feed on fishes almost at the top of the marine food chain such as tuna, swordfish, bluefish, and other sharks. It can also very well live up to 30 years old.
Where and When to Catch Mako Sharks
Sharks are highly migratory marine species, and the mako is no exception. This shark can be caught at almost any time of the year, favoring water temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. This adds to the challenge of catching these magnificent speedsters. You can find mako sharks near Chesapeake Bay and pretty much anywhere in Virginia waters. Just mind the temperature of the water you’re in and use a favorable bait.
Catching Mako Sharks
Catching this magnificent fish is a difficult feat, something that anglers are very eager to do. But catching this fish is dangerous even for experts, so proceed with utmost caution. The mako is a speedy fish and is known to outspeed any other sharks for that matter. That speed, coupled with its weight and explosive agility, makes it one of the most difficult fish to catch. Mako sharks are also documented to jump off waters reaching a height of 20 feet.
To catch the mako, you will have to use heavy-duty equipment and as much manpower as you can. It is recommended to use trolling and proceed to tire the fish out by moving the boat and not staying stationary. When the fish is tired out, you can now proceed to pull the shark into your boat and kill it by impaling it with a knife in-between its eyes so the shark won’t fight while inside your boat, since this fish is also known to attack boats and injure people.
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Enjoying your Mako Dish
The mako fish is one of the smartest seafood choices touted by NOAA as the shark population of mako sharks are closely monitored and well-regulated by marine authorities, so rest assured and put down your guilt aside.
Enjoying a mako is pretty much enjoying the tasty meat of swordfish but with added moisture in its flesh. Overall, you can enjoy your mako catch with the following recommended cooking methods: marinating for grilling, cubing for soups, broiling, sauteing, or steaming. Enjoy your catch and experiment with its tasty flavor!
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