Catch and Release Tips for sharks up to 7 feet
Successfully tagging and releasing sharks takes practice, teamwork, and a certain degree of luck. Being prepared is one of the biggest factors in this process.
Supplies you might need to release a shark: Pliers, gloves, tape measure, tag stick, shark tags, tail rope, and bolt cutters or dikes.
Play the fish as quickly as possible. The longer the fight, the less likely the fish will survive after release.
Don’t leave rods and reels unattended while fishing for sharks.
If the shark is large, tail rope it and use the rope to take it toward the beach. This will reduce the chance of the fishing line breaking during the landing process, again increasing the chance of survival.
Get a quick measurement of total length and fork length, required photos, and write the measurements in the sand or on a piece of paper.
Determine the sex of the shark, if possible. Males have claspers near the anal fin, females don’t.
Attempt to remove the hook with pliers or hook removal device. If you are unsuccessful in couple of minutes, cut the hook (if possible) and remove the pieces with pliers. If unable to cut the hook, cut the cable or mono leader as close as possible to the hook. Insert a tag just behind the dorsal fin if you or someone in your camp has tags.
Take photographs of your catch. Remember to hold the ruler as straight as possible, touching the fish at every point. Start the measurement at the nose and stretch the ruler toward the tail. Do not bend or twist the ruler. Have someone take your photo at a 90-degree angle from the fish/angler. If using a flash, get close enough to illuminate the entire fish. Take multiple shots! Use the time stamp on your camera, and take at least one picture between fish. Remember, only digital formats will be accepted – No Polaroid’s.
Walk the shark into the water headfirst when possible. Don’t drag the shark backwards into the surf. While walking the shark forward, position yourself behind the pectoral fin while holding the dorsal fin. This will only work if the water is sufficiently deep to support the fish. Don’t hesitate to ask people to help get the shark back in the water.
Keep the shark pointed into the waves to allow oxygenated water to circulate through the gills.
When the shark shows signs of reviving, move backwards toward the beach, sliding your hands backward along the body of the fish until you reach the tail with your hands.
Give the tail a swat, and the shark should take off like a shot.
Make sure you never take your eyes off the shark after it has been released. Some times they will turn around or become disoriented, and you might need to attempt the release again. Some of these steps may not be suitable for larger sharks.
You will definitely need help with a shark over 7 feet. Remember, safety first. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way.