Are blue runners good shark bait in the Carolinas?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Ah, blue runners, the little torpedoes of the sea! 🐟 As a professional fishing guide, I can assure you that these lively, shimmering fish make excellent bait for shark fishing in the Carolinas. Here's why and how to maximize their use.

### Why Blue Runners are Ideal Shark Bait

**Blue runners** are robust, energetic, and can stay alive for extended periods on the hook, making them incredibly enticing to hungry sharks. Their flashy scales and vigorous swimming action mimic a distress signal to predatory fish, drawing them in for a closer look. Sharks are attracted to this commotion, thinking there's an easy meal to be had. 🦈

#### How to Rig Blue Runners

To effectively use blue runners as bait, you'll want to hook them in a way that allows them to swim naturally. A popular method is to use a **circle hook** through the back near the dorsal fin. This technique keeps the bait lively and increases your chances of a successful hookup when a shark strikes.

Here's a handy [Blue Runner Sabiki Rig](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0859MW584?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) from Amazon that you can use to catch your own blue runners if they aren't readily available at your local bait shop.

### Seasonal and Weather Considerations

In the Carolinas, **early summer** is a prime time for shark fishing. The water temperatures are rising, which gets both the baitfish and the sharks more active. On particularly sunny days, sharks might prefer the cooler, deeper waters, so consider fishing during early morning or late afternoon when they might venture closer to the shore.

#### Weather-Specific Fishing Tip

During periods of high pressure and sunny skies, sharks tend to be more cautious. Try using a lighter leader line to make your bait presentation more natural. Conversely, overcast days or just after a summer storm can make sharks more aggressive and less discerning when it comes to taking the bait.

### Additional Resources

For a visual guide on catching baitfish like blue runners, you might want to check out this [YouTube video on trolling for blue runners](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOIa2ne7hLM):

![Trolling for Blue Runners](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bOIa2ne7hLM/mqdefault.jpg)

### Quick Tip

When targeting sharks, always ensure your tackle is strong enough to handle the fight. A **heavy-duty rod and reel** combo with a solid drag system is essential.

Keep your spirits high and your line tight. The thrill of hooking a shark on the line is second to none, and with blue runners as your bait, you're well on your way to an unforgettable fishing adventure. Good luck out there! 🎣🐟🦈

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