Mako shark fly fishing
Few experiences in the fishing world compare to targeting mako sharks on the fly. These powerful pelagic predators are known for their blistering speed and spectacular aerial displays. When a mako appears behind the boat and charges a fly, the adrenaline hits instantly. One moment, the ocean is calm; the next, a shark explodes across the surface in a series of violent runs and leaps.
Guided by Conway Bowman, anglers have the opportunity to pursue one of the most thrilling fly fishing experiences anywhere in the world just off the coast of San Diego. This fishery has been refined over decades and offers anglers a rare chance to target apex ocean predators on fly gear.
The Mako Shark
Mako sharks are among the fastest fish in the ocean and one of the most exciting species ever targeted on a fly rod. Known for their intelligence, speed, and acrobatic fights, these sharks regularly explode into long runs and aerial jumps once hooked.
Most makos encountered on these trips range from 80 to 300 pounds, though larger fish are always possible. Watching one materialize in the chum slick and track a fly toward the boat is a moment that stays with anglers forever.
Their aggressive nature and willingness to attack a properly presented fly make them one of the ultimate big game species for fly anglers.
Join us in pursuit of Makos
(April - November) Prime time is May- August, These dates book up quick so try to book ahead of time
The Fishery
San Diego sits on the edge of incredibly productive Pacific waters where baitfish, warm currents, and offshore structure create ideal conditions for pelagic predators. During the summer months these waters come alive with mako sharks moving through the area.
Trips typically involve running offshore before establishing a controlled chum slick that attracts sharks to the boat. Once a shark appears, anglers present large flies designed to trigger a reaction strike. The encounter is entirely visual, and seeing a mako accelerate toward a fly is one of the most heart-pounding moments in fishing.
This fishery is one of the few places in the world where anglers can consistently target mako sharks with fly gear.
It’s big game hunting in salt water
Fly fishing for Makos is like big game hunting. We are looking for opportunities to sight-cast a fly to a large predator, which takes time and patience. But the reward is unlike any other in salt water fly fishing. The best way to attract larger Makos is by chumming with fresh tuna, then using the bait-and-switch technique often used when fly fishing for billfish.
Our Trips
Find out for yourself why fly fisherman from around the world come to San Diego to catch this great gamefish!
We offer Tide Cycle (6 hrs), Full Day (8 hrs), and Extended Day (10 hrs) trips, for 1 -3 anglers. You can also book 2- or 3- Extended Days in advance.
Book Your Mako Shark Trip Today
Imagine a large shark jumping 20 feet into the air after being hooked on a fly, then racing off to the horizon at 40 MPH! That’s what you can expect when fly fishing for San Diego Makos.
There is no other fish in the sea that compares to the Mako shark in jumping ability, strength and speed. They are truly one the ocean’s greatest gamefish!
Join us off the coast of San Diego and experience the power, speed, and adrenaline of one of the ocean’s greatest predators.
