California Department of Fish and Wildlife wants to remind folks that White sharks are protected.
White sharks are protected by state and federal law and it is NOT legal to target or recreationally fish for them. Also, when a white shark is present, even if you are fishing for other species, shark bait, shark lures, and shark chum (including decoys) cannot be placed in the water. If you accidentally hook a white shark, it must be released by immediately cutting the line as close to the hook as possible, without removing the shark from the water or pulling it onto a beach.
Per California law: “shark bait, shark lure, or shark chum” means any natural or manufactured product or device used to attract sharks by the sense of taste, smell, or sight, including, but not limited to, blood, fish, or other material upon which sharks may feed, and surface or underwater decoys. Violations are misdemeanors with fines up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both (Fish and Game Code 12002).
If a white shark was recently spotted or is present in the area (within 1 nautical mile), then you can’t keep fishing with shark gear for other shark species, including but not limited to mako, thresher, leopard, and smoothhounds. CDFW advises shore and pier anglers targeting legal sharks to check with local lifeguards or other public safety officials prior to shark fishing whenever possible.
If you witness any wildlife violations, notify CalTIP by calling 1-888-334-CalTIP (1-888-334-2258) or texting “CALTIP”, followed by a space and the message, to 847411 (tip411).
