Where to buy Bonnetheads?

[CLucas_27]

Hey guys new here, my future dream is to have a 3000+ gallon Bonnethead pond(above ground pool). Does anyone know where I cld find them for sale, I live in So Cal so I can't catch them (nor wld I feel comfortable w it)? Also, since the temp ranges heavily here, would I need a heater or chiller if it was to be outside? Thanks

 

[Speedfreak241]

If you come to Florida you could definitely catch one. We hook them all the time down here while fishing.

One from last time I was out fishing.

 

[fraggin corals]

Search for Shark and Reef website online. He may be able to get them for you and his site is legit.

 

[CLucas_27]

Speedfreak241: I'll actually be down in the Keys for spring break, but I don't plan on turning my vacation into getting a shark home. I'll def look into catching one since they are very expensive.

fraggin corals: I kno that website and I will contact the guy, thanks

 

[Dmorty217]

Ask alprazo

 

[CLucas_27]

Dmorty: Thanks! I will once I get in the 10 posts lol

 

[Dmorty217]

Dmorty: Thanks! I will once I get in the 10 posts lol

Matt (zoodiver) is also another great person to ask. He is also on monsterfishkeepers

 

[atl14]

you wont have much luck in the jeys for them anyways. south Georgia north Florida intercoastal and brackish marshes are swarming with those fish. I'd seriously just catch your own. the trick is not catching them when your fishing for other stuff.

 

[Zoodiver]

Just be aware that collection of live sharks is illegal without permits, and very few are issued - especially to private citizens.

They do not take that lightly, and jail is a real possibility.

 

[liverock]

Just be aware that collection of live sharks is illegal without permits, and very few are issued - especially to private citizens.

They do not take that lightly, and jail is a real possibility.

Very true...sharks are not to be messed with unless you have a federal shark permit, and are a licensed federal shark dealer....as these folks found out the hard way....they are being sentenced this month..

http://flarecord.com/stories/510941875-plea-deal-possible-for-accused-shark-sellers

http://keysnews.com/node/74605

If you want a shark, make sure the person you buy it from has a valid shark permit on their boat and also a federal permit to sell them....as it is your responsibility to abide by the laws....the Feds take this real seriously.....

 

[Zoodiver]

Exactly, and that example is not isolated.

The guys who were trying to open the Austin Aquarium had already done the Portland Aquarium (Ammon Covino and his brother Peter) got nailed TWICE (the second time right after finishing the first sentence).

USFW/FWC are really good at keeping tabs on what is going on in our waters.


I replied to your PM CLucas. I have a few very good legal suppliers if you (or anyone) is looking and can establish you have the space, budget and knowledge to house them properly.

 

[kangadrew]

Dynasty Marine is a great source, many public aquariums purchase through them - although they are a bit pricey, IMO. Their CB bonnethead pups are sold at 10" and run for $1,000.

Also, I suggest joining Shark Ray Central. There are a few vendors on there that could get them to you.

Finally, for bonnetheads you're going to need at least a 24' diameter pool, or a 35x15 oval. 4' depth is recommended. Intex sells a 24' diameter pool for a very affordable cost, and they might sell a very similarly-sized oval. Bonnetheads do much better in groups of 2-5 sharks, it appears - that size tank should be able to house them for quite some time.