United States - February 11, 2025 Florida's recreational fishing community is facing a growing challenge as shark depredation continues to disrupt the industry. Researchers have identified the stealthy ocean ‘bandits’ responsible for stealing fish from anglers’ lines, with bull sharks and sandbar sharks topping the list. A recent study, led by Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, reveals that shark depredation is a major issue, with 43% of anglers experiencing these underwater heists. Using citizen science to fill in the research gaps, the study involved social media analysis, online surveys, and genetic sampling. It found snapper-grouper species were the most frequently targeted, and shark depredation was most prevalent in the Florida Keys and southeast regions. The groundbreaking study, published in the ICES Journal of Marine Science, suggests that seasonal and regional factors influence the frequency of shark depredation but that fishing pressure and fishing techniques may play an even more significant role. The findings could aid fishery managers in balancing shark conservation efforts with the needs of recreational fishing. [Credit: Florida Atlantic Harbor Branch]