Bull Run
Face-to-face with apex predators — Bimini's legendary baited shark dive experience.
Bull Run has earned its name from the powerful bull sharks that congregate in the shallow waters south of Bimini each winter. This baited shark dive offers one of the most reliable and intense shark encounters in the Caribbean, with multiple species appearing in numbers that would be impossible to guarantee on a natural reef dive.
Conducted in just 30 feet of water on the lee side of the island, the experience puts divers face-to-face with bull sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, lemon sharks, and nurse sharks in a controlled environment managed by experienced operators.
The Bull Run Experience
Divers position themselves on a sandy bottom while professional staff deploy bait to attract sharks into the area. Bull sharks — thick-bodied predators reaching up to 11 feet — are the main attraction, but Caribbean reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and lemon sharks frequently join the feeding.
The shallow depth allows extended bottom times, often exceeding 45 minutes. Most encounters involve multiple sharks circling within arm's reach, creating intense but managed interactions unlike anything on a conventional dive.
Safety and Protocols
Bull Run operates under strict safety protocols developed over years of shark diving experience. Divers remain stationary on the bottom while staff control the bait and manage shark positioning. Briefings cover proper behavior, positioning, and what to expect.
Some operators offer cage options for divers who prefer an additional barrier, though most participants dive without cages. The shallow water allows rapid ascent if needed, and experienced divemasters monitor shark behavior throughout the dive.
Seasonality and Conditions
Bull shark season runs from December through March, with January and February typically offering the highest concentrations. The sharks follow migration patterns tied to water temperature and prey availability, making winter the optimal window.
Outside peak season, reef sharks and nurse sharks remain present, though bull shark sightings become less reliable. Water temperature during season ranges from 72 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit — a 5mm wetsuit with hood and gloves is standard equipment.
Getting there
Bull Run operates from the Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina, with boats departing from the dock at Neal Watson's Bimini Scuba Center. The dive site is a short 10 to 15 minute boat ride from the marina. Advance booking is essential during peak season, and weather conditions may cause postponements.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Bull Run shark dive safe?
- The dive operates under strict safety protocols developed over many years of shark diving experience. Divers remain stationary while professional staff manage bait and shark positioning. The shallow depth allows rapid ascent if needed, and experienced divemasters monitor behavior throughout.
- What certification do I need for Bull Run?
- Open Water certification is the minimum requirement. Divers should be comfortable in current and able to maintain neutral buoyancy on a sandy bottom. Recent diving experience is recommended — this is not an ideal dive for those returning after a long break.
- When is the best time to dive Bull Run?
- Bull shark season runs from December through March, with January and February typically offering the most reliable encounters. The sharks migrate through Bimini waters following predictable seasonal patterns.
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