Video shows angler freeing great white shark after surprise catch at Nantucket
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Elliot Sudal, an angler in Nantucket, caught a rare great white shark accidentally while fishing and shared video of the encounter on social media to demonstrate safe catch-and-release practices.
- The footage shows Sudal quickly removing the hook and releasing the shark back into the ocean within about 15 seconds, emphasizing the importance of minimizing harm to the vulnerable species.
- Sudal, who has fished in Nantucket for 13 years and caught over a thousand other sharks, described the experience as humbling and unforgettable, highlighting the need for respect and caution when interacting with great whites.
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) prohibits landing great white sharks, which are globally vulnerable, and their population in US waters remains unknown.
- Sudal encourages other anglers to use heavy tackle, barbless circle hooks, and to participate in tagging programs and educational courses to promote safe and responsible shark fishing.