Great White Shark in Maryland: what to know before you start looking

1. What is the likely habitat of great white sharks in Maryland?

Great white sharks in Maryland stick to the cooler, deeper waters of the continental shelf and the submarine canyons, like the Baltimore Canyon and the Wilmington Canyon. These areas concentrate prey such as seals, tuna, and mackerel. Near-shore sightings are rare, but the sharks do occasionally wander into the surf zone, especially around Ocean City Inlet. In summer, water temperatures above 60°F push them into deeper, cooler patches.

See ourGreat White Shark guidefor the next step.

2. When is the best timing to spot great white sharks in Maryland?

The window runs from June through October, with the highest activity in August and September as sharks follow the migrating baitfish and seals. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best surface visibility. Most confirmed reports come from offshore fishing charters in the canyons. Winter and early spring are quiet because the sharks move south or to deeper waters.

3. One practical clue for beginners: how can you identify a great white shark?

Look for a useful, torpedo-shaped body with a conical snout, a dark gray upper side, and a stark white belly. The first dorsal fin is large and triangular, and the tail is crescent-shaped with equal-sized lobes. Juveniles have a black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. A great white’s countershading makes it hard to see from above or below. If you see a large dorsal fin slicing the surface offshore, it could be a great white.

4. Where should you start looking for great white sharks in Maryland?

Start with the offshore canyons 30 to 60 miles east of Ocean City. Many charter boats run ‘shark trips’ that target these areas. For those without a boat, follow the OCEARCH tracker map for tagged white sharks that ping near Maryland. On rare occasions, you can spot them from the Ocean City pier or Assateague Island beaches, but those sightings are for the lucky. For more on Maryland’s marine wildlife, check out ourMaryland wildlife guide.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.

5. What tools can help you track great white shark movements?

OCEARCH offers a real-time interactive map of tagged great whites, including famous ones like ‘Mary Lee’ and ‘Katharine.’ Local fishing report forums on The Hull Truth or Facebook groups like ‘Ocean City Fishing’ often post recent sightings. You can also join a shark-watching cruise. Use the tracker below to see current pings near Maryland.

6. Great white shark art and decor from Easy Street Markets

After a day of scanning the horizon, bring the ocean home with shark-inspired wall art. These pieces capture the elegance of sharks without the hype.

Whale Shark Wall Art | Black and White Minimal Ocean Canvas Print

This clean black-and-white print works well in a modern office or living room. It’s a subtle nod to shark enthusiasts without overpowering the room.Check Price and Availability

Hammerhead Shark Giclée Print: Minimalist Black and White Underwater Ocean Art

A minimalist giclée print that emphasizes the unique hammerhead silhouette. Great for a coastal-themed wall.Check Price and Availability

Black and White Shark Ocean Depth Modern Coastal Decor – Pictures Framed Canvas Print

A framed canvas with a deep, moody ocean scene featuring a shark. It brings a dramatic but tasteful focal point to any space.Check Price and Availability

For more shark-themed shirts and apparel, visit ourshark t-shirts collection.

7. Frequently asked questions about great white sharks in Maryland

**Are great white sharks common in Maryland?** They are not common near shore, but the offshore canyons host a seasonal population. Tagging data shows several individuals return year after year.

**Has a great white shark ever been caught off Maryland?** Yes, recreational fishermen occasionally catch them in the canyons. In 2024, a 12-foot juvenile was caught and released near the Baltimore Canyon.

**Can you swim in Maryland beaches with great whites?** The risk is extremely low. Great whites rarely enter the shallow surf, and attacks are virtually unheard of in Maryland. Always swim near guarded beaches.

**What is the best way to see a great white shark in Maryland?** Book an offshore shark fishing charter or follow real-time trackers. For more detailed planning, see ourgreat white shark in Maryland page.