Skip to main content

NOAA Releases Important Video and ID Guide for Shark Anglers

If you don't know, let it go.



Shark fishing is mostly a catch-and-release sport, but some species, such as blacktip, mako and sharpnose, are pretty good to eat.



It's important to follow the laws, and very important to know which species is which. Some, such as dusky and sandbar, are protected from all harvest.



How do you tell them apart? NOAA Fisheries recently released some very helpful tools for anglers. The first is a video detailing some of the basic advice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avOBR8xJm40&feature=youtu.be'>





Here's a link to the Shark Identification guide. Might be a good idea to print the PDF, laminate it, and keep it in your boat.

http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/documents/fmp/am5/a5b_index.html



Note, too, that as of January 1, 2018, there will be a shark endorsement requirement added to the federal NOAA HMS vessel Angling permit. This is the permit recreational anglers fishing federal waters (outside 9 miles on the Gulf, 3 on the Atlantic) purchase if targeting swordfish, billfish and tunas. It's in addition to a state fishing license.



Another recent development: Non-offset, non-stainless steel circle hooks are required if targeting sharks with natural bait.



Last but not least, where shark fishing is concerned, Florida state fishing regulations differ a bit from the federal guidelines. One chief difference: Hammerheads (scalloped, smooth and great) and lemon sharks are completely protected from harvest in Florida waters. State shark rules may be found here: http://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/sharks/




GET THE NEWSLETTER Join the List and Never Miss a Thing.

Recommended Articles

Recent Videos

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Gear

BoatWorks: Dusky Distinctives

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Gear

Reef Roundup

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Gear

Edge Quest

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Gear

Bait Stop

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Gear

Seakeeper Ride Demo

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Crescent Kayak's Fly-Weight Rigs & Ultra-Affordable Primo!

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Newport NK180PRO: Empower YOUR Fishing Utility!

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Native Titan X Rigged with Newport NK300 really MOVES

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Hyper-Versatile K-Craft Paddle & Powerskiff!

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Cover Up With Sun-Protective Clothing

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Inflation We Can Live With! Mustang Convertible PFD

Learn how to convert between automatic and manual modes on the Mustang A/M Convertible series PFD. Also see how to re-ar...
Videos

Converting and Re-Arming Mustang Inflatable A/M PFD

Florida Sportsman Magazine Covers Print and Tablet Versions

GET THE MAGAZINE Subscribe & Save

Digital Now Included!

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Give a Gift   |   Subscriber Services

Preview This Month's Issue

Buy Digital Single Issues

Magazine App Logo

Don't miss an issue.
Buy single digital issue for your phone or tablet.

Get the Florida Sportsman App apple store google play store

Other Magazines

See All Other Magazines

Special Interest Magazines

See All Special Interest Magazines

GET THE NEWSLETTER Join the List and Never Miss a Thing.

Get the top Florida Sportsman stories delivered right to your inbox.

Phone Icon

Get Digital Access.

All Florida Sportsman subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets.

To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine.

Get Digital Access

Not a Subscriber?
Subscribe Now

Enjoying What You're Reading?

Get a Full Year
of Guns & Ammo
& Digital Access.

Offer only for new subscribers.

Subscribe Now

Never Miss a Thing.

Get the Newsletter

Get the top Florida Sportsman stories delivered right to your inbox.

By signing up, I acknowledge that my email address is valid, and have read and accept the Terms of Use