Miami Beach Bans Land-Based Shark Fishing

Miami Beach, FL – With millions of visitors who come to soak up the sun and experience the city’s 7-miles of pristine beaches each year, the Miami Beach City Commission has voted unanimously to prohibit land-based shark fishing. The measure applies to shark fishing along the shoreline as well as from any dock, bridge or other land-based structure.

“We’re targeting heavy-duty fishing equipment that can cause serious injuries to families or anyone who happens to be enjoying our public beach areas,” explained Miami Beach Commissioner Laura Dominguez, who sponsored the measure.

The ordinance notes that shark carcasses have been discovered along the shores of Miami Beach as well as in neighboring communities as an apparent result of fishing or mishandling sharks.

“We are not only reducing dangerous human-shark interactions in our swimming areas, but also taking a firm stand against the degradation of our vital marine ecosystem,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “This is a critical step in ensuring our world-class beaches remain a safe environment for every resident and visitor.”

While the primary focus of the ordinance is directed at protecting residents and visitors, the legislation is also intended to prevent the “intentional or negligent capture, injury or killing of sharks within or adjacent to city waters” and to protect endangered marine life and species protected under state law.

Shore-based shark fishing requires the use of long lengths of fishing line and large hooks that can pose injury hazards for swimmers, surfers, waders and other shoreline users.

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