Soupfin Shark (Vaalhaai)
Illustration: gardenroutefishing.co.za
The tope or vaalhaai — a slender, fast grey shark that patrols deeper surf and inshore reefs, often in schools.
Where & how: deep beaches and drop-offs on fish baits; takes are fast and the first run long. Typically 10-30 kg.
Status: soupfin sharks are critically endangered globally after decades of overfishing for fins and flesh. South African regulations restrict take — the only defensible approach for recreationals is immediate release. Use circle hooks, keep the fish in the water and get it swimming fast.
Field guide
Powerful, sustained runs and dogged head-shaking — big fish test heavy tackle and your stamina rather than jumping.
How to catch Soupfin Shark (Vaalhaai)
Medium-heavy surf outfit, circle hooks
Large baitrunner spinning reel (8000–14000) or a 6/0–9/0 conventional with 300 m+ line capacity and a strong, smooth drag.
0.50–0.70 mm mono or 50–80 lb braid for the mainline.
8/0–12/0 non-stainless circle hooks (rust out if a deep-hooked fish is released).
1.5–2 m of 100–300 lb mono trace; multi-strand wire or cable for toothy sharks.
Fish baits
When to catch Soupfin Shark (Vaalhaai)
Deep beaches, low light
Feeds hard on moving water, especially the push and after dark; spring tides and a warm current switch them on.
Most active in warmer water, roughly 18–23 °C, especially when bait shoals are inshore.
🥅 Landing
On the beach, use the swash to slide the fish onto wet sand; from rocks, lead it to a safe gulley. Never gaff a shark you plan to release.
♻️ Release
Keep it in the water, support the body, remove the hook with a de-hooker or cut the trace close, then revive it upright facing the current until it swims off strongly.
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