Research conducted by the University of Exeter indicates that a majority of sharks caught in UK waters can survive if anglers adhere to established best practices for catch-and-release fishing. This study, featured in the ICES Journal of Marine Science, highlights the significance of proper handling techniques in promoting shark survival.
Researchers from the university, in collaboration with various partners, tracked nearly 70 blue, porbeagle, and tope sharks that were caught during recreational fishing excursions across the British Isles. The findings revealed that fewer than 5% of the sharks died post-release, with only three individuals—one from each species—recorded as fatalities.
Francesco Garzon, a researcher at the University of Exeter, emphasized the importance of following best practices, stating, “Our results suggest survival rates are high when sharks are caught and released within current best-practice guidelines.” He noted that the sharks that did not survive showed no external injuries and were active upon release. However, he mentioned that two of the deceased sharks, a porbeagle and a tope, were deeply hooked and had to be released with hooks still in place to prevent further injury.
The research team utilized data-gathering tags that remained attached to the sharks for up to 45 days, subsequently detaching to confirm the sharks” survival. Sixteen of these tags were recovered, providing valuable data on the sharks” depth and movement patterns post-release. Garzon observed, “Immediately after release, all three species swam rapidly to deeper waters—likely to escape and re-oxygenate their gills. Their behavior varied afterward, but they generally stayed at greater depths than usual.” Most sharks appeared to have fully recovered within 24 hours, although some, particularly porbeagles, occasionally required more time.
Catch-and-release fishing is the predominant practice for shark fishing in the British Isles and much of Europe, though methods differ among anglers. This study underscores the critical need for adherence to best practice handling guidelines to enhance post-release survival rates. Previous research highlighted that survival rates can vary depending on species and geographical location.
Within Europe, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies porbeagle sharks as “critically endangered,” tope sharks as “vulnerable,” and blue sharks as “near threatened.” The sharks in this study were captured during fishing trips from ports in England, Scotland, and the Channel Islands. The research team consisted of members from Edinburgh Napier University and the Government of Jersey, with contributions from fishers and skippers, Shark Hub UK, and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, guided by the Shark Trust.
For further details on best practices in shark handling, visit Shark Trust or the Shark Angling Club of Great Britain.
