Thread: Park Rules: Landing a Record Shark

David B mentioned on facebook that the Park might allow a shark to be landed if it is indeed an official record.

Can someone please verify this for me?

I somehow managed to pull in, approximately, a 55-60 pound Blacktip Shark yesterday on 1# test line and completely smashed the 2# Line Class IGFA World Record (which is likely what the line would test for anyhow).

I'm positive with a little work and luck I can pull it off again, and all I need is a 25 pound King to break that record as well.

I'm going for it.

If someone can verify the shark rule on landing records in state park property, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks in advance.

I can't verify the rule, but I can attest to the fact that what you did was a monumental accomplishment. I had a jack crevalle nearly whip my butt yesterday while using 16# test, much less 2# and an ice fishing rod like you did. Hats off to VG.

I don't know who David B is but the state sez otherwise...
http://www.alapark.com/parks/pdfs/Ru...egulations.pdf

2. Swimming, Fishing and Boating (220-5-.02) (f) It shall be unlawful to fish for sharks or use any type of shark fishing gear on
any Gulf State Park Public Beach or on the Gulf State Park Saltwater Fishing
Pier. It shall be unlawful to land or to attempt to land any shark on any line
originally cast from said State Park Pier or Beach.

Good luck with your quest!

unlawful to land or to attempt to land any shark on any line

That kinda covers it!

Right, I'm fully aware of the written law. However, what David Bornhoft mentioned was that he heard the park ranger would make an exception if a record catch was in question. That is what I want to verify.

One way around it would be to bring the shark to the pier and lasso a rope on its tail, and lift the shark out of the water and hang from a scale over the rail, then deduct the balance weight of the rope to get an accurate weight.

Then the shark would never come over the railing and be officially "landed," but the record could still stand.

Only problem I foresee with that is how to get the rope off of the tail afterward.

Hevishot 12ga 3 1/2" magnum blend will get the rope off him.

The other issues you would have with setting a record would be:
Length of your leader ( top shot).
Getting a certified scale (store bought scale might not certify)
Line breakage. It might say one pound and break at four when tested.

I was there yesterday and watching you catch the sharks was impressive.

Originally Posted by Viking Guy

Right, I'm fully aware of the written law. However, what David Bornhoft mentioned was that he heard the park ranger would make an exception if a record catch was in question. That is what I want to verify.

Then I would suggest you speak with the Park Ranger.
All us 'law abiding citizens' can do is quote the written law ;-)

1# test LOL. You've taken light line to the extreme! I gotta know, how do you even cast without it breaking/ and how long did it take to bring in that shark?

http://www.igfa.org/images/uploads/f...une162014b.pdf
Real strict guidelines pertaining IGFA records. Briefly read through them and you may have problems doing it from the pier. Good luck!