CRD proposes circle-hook, other changes for shark fishing

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (Dec. 4, 2019) — A division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is proposing additional changes to fishing regulations first recommended in September.

The Coastal Resources Division of DNR on Wednesday asked the state Board of Natural Resources to require anglers to use non-offset, corrodible, non-stainless-steel circle hooks when fishing for all species of sharks in state waters, except when using flies or artificial lures. This is in addition to requests made in September that the board prohibit the harvest of Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) less than 83 inches fork length, regardless of sex, and to completely prohibit the harvest of Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Carcharhinus longimanus).

Read the full story in the upcoming December 12th print edition of the Lanier County News!