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Shark encounters with anglers are nothing new, but in recent years recreational anglers have reported a clear and concerning increase in these incidents. These interactions, particularly along the Atlantic coast in the southeastern U.S., have frustrated anglers and raised safety concerns.
After years of public outcry on the issue, there finally appears to be some movement, according to a recently released report from the American Sportfishing Association (ASA).
In January 2025, U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (R-Va.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), and Marc Veasey (D-Tex.) introduced the Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research, Knowledge and Enhanced Dialogue (SHARKED) Act (H.R. 207) in the U.S. House of Representatives.
As the name implies, the bill aims to address shark depredation by creating a dedicated task force of fisheries managers and shark experts. This group will focus on improving coordination within the fisheries management community, identifying research priorities, and seeking funding opportunities to reduce these incidents nationwide.
The SHARKED Act passed the House on January 22, 2025, just over a week after its introduction—an unusually fast timeline that reflects the urgency and popularity of the issue. While never a certainty, those in favor anticipate the bill to pass the Senate in similar fashion. Should it pass the Senate, the bill will then go to President Trump’s desk for final approval.
