June 4, 2024 — Shark depredation is the partial or complete removal of a hooked fish by a shark directly from an angler’s line before the line can be retrieved. It is a growing concern for recreational anglers. NOAA Fisheries is taking steps to better understand the frequency of depredation events and the circumstances around these interactions.
Research shows several possible reasons for an increase in shark depredation.
- More sharks: Populations of some shark species have recovered from overfishing thanks to NOAA Fisheries’ conservation efforts under the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
- More anglers: Increasing numbers of anglers releasing more fish—possibly injured or dead—which can attract sharks.
- Learned behavior: Some evidence suggests sharks can learn from previous interactions and begin to associate the sounds of fishing boats with easy meals.
It is important to consider that sharks are not the only animals capable of depredation. Dolphins, seals, groupers, and other large fish are all known to feed on anglers’ catch. While sharks are easy to blame, they are not always the culprit.