Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Sand Tiger Sharks are a large bulky shark with a flattened snout.

The upper side is light brown or light greenish-gray with the underside a grayish white. Many individuals have darker reddish or brown spots scattered on the body.

The first dorsal fin is far back on the body, behind the first pectoral fin.

The first and second dorsal and anal fins are nearly equal in size.

Their teeth are dagger-like and protrude from mouth. Their ragged looking teeth give the Sand Tiger Shark a distinct menacing look.

Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.

Season	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Sand tiger sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Size Limit	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Sand tiger sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Daily Limit / Person	CLOSED - no harvest permitted Sand tiger sharks must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water.
Delaware Range	Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay and Inland Bays
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Common
General Habitat and Food Preferences	The Sand Tiger Shark frequents shorelines and sandy beaches. They feed primarily on small fishes, eels, skates, and rays.
Did You Know?	Unlike other sharks, the Sand Tiger Shark can gulp air from the surface, allowing it to be suspended in the water column with minimal effort.
Common Lures and Baits	It is unlawful to release a Sand Tiger Shark in a manner that will not ensure the shark's maximum probability of survival (e.g., no gaffs, no clubbing, careful hook removal, etc.). It is unlawful for any hook and line fisherman to remove a Sand Tiger Shark from the water.
Typical Sizes Caught	In general, sandtiger sharks range in length from 4 to 10 feet. They can weigh anywhere from 200 to 350 pounds.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Sand Tiger Sharks are a protected species and not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Sand Tiger Sharks are a protected species and are not currently eligible for any Delaware record.

Delaware's Government