The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted to begin drafting new rules for anglers who target shark from shorelines. The new regulations could include new restrictions to limit the practice, like banning shark fishing from public beaches and piers, prohibiting certain tackle that can be used to target the fish and issuing of permits for those who wish to target sharks.
Proponents of the new regulations claim that shark fishing draws the predators into increased contact with swimmers. That argument has not shown to be valid.
Marine Fisheries Management Director Jessica McCawley, told the commission “there is no credible evidence that fishing increases the likelihood of a shark bite occurring in nearby waters.”
Another argument for banning shark fishing is that the practice harms shark populations. The commission admitted during the meetings that there have been no credible studies to support the claim.
After prospective rules have been drafted, the FWC will seek public input before voting on a final draft.