Fisherman, Chip Michalove, is at it again!
The well-known shark fisherman has just landed another massive hammerhead shark off the coast of Hilton Head Island. This makes for his second hammerhead shark in as many weeks. Chip is a regular on the “Shark Week” circuit, and is the owner of the charter fishing company, Outcast Sport Fishing. He has caught some of the largest sharks ever documented, including a 1,000-pound great white shark!
Last July, Chip caught a massive hammerhead, approximately 13 1/2 feet and over 1,000 pounds. The previous state record was a 600-pounder, set 33+ years ago. To say that Chip set the bar for a new record catch is an understatement!
About hammerhead sharks:
The known species range from about three feet to just under 20 feet in length and weigh up to 1,300 lbs. Deep-water hammerheads are usually light gray, but those who get more sun look black. Their bellies are white, which allows them to blend into the background when viewed from below and sneak up to their prey. Their heads have lateral projections that give them a hammer-like shape. Sensors on these hammer-like projections trace electrical currents, given off by unsuspecting prey. While overall similar, the shape of the “hammer” differs somewhat between species.
Examples are:
- a distinct T-shape in the great hammerhead
- a rounded head with a central notch in the scalloped hammerhead
- an unnotched rounded head in the smooth hammerhead.
Why so many and why so big?
Two words: food source. It’s tarpon time in our waters, black-tip sharks are busy and the stingray population is higher than normal. Hammerhead sharks eat a large range of prey such as fish (including other sharks), squid, octopus, and crustaceans. Stingrays are a particular favorite. The hammerheads that Michalove has reeled in have evidence of stingray bite marks on the sides of their mouths. They use their uniquely-shaped head to pin down stingrays and eat the ray when the ray is weak and in shock.
It is not due to a Shak-nado or Shark Apocalypse.
So, do not fear – a well-populated sea life presence is a good thing! The fact that there are more of the the hammerheads’ favorite snacks, and thus, more hammerheads proves that our local waters are healthy.
While Chip is known for his shark fishing prowess, he also advocates for the conservation of these misunderstood creatures. He believes that humans and sharks can coexist peacefully, and he works with several local and national organizations to help promote this message.
On your next visit to Hilton Head, be sure to keep an eye out for Chip Michalove. You just might see him reel in another record-breaking catch!
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammerhead_shark.
