REDINGTON SHORES, Fla. — Now in effect, shark fishing from the shores is illegal in two Pinellas County towns.
The new ordinance comes after a pregnant tiger shark washed ashore in Indian Shores. The shark was pregnant with 40 pups.
Multiple reports say Indian Shores police believe the shark was likely fished from the beach and left to die.
Tiger shark fishing is already prohibited from land and water. And now Redington Shores is one of two communities in Pinellas County that is adding a layer of enforcement with fines.
First-time shark-fishing offenders will face a $250 fine. Repeat violations will result in a $500 fine.
"What it came down to not only protecting the species but also protecting our beachgoers," Mike McGlothin, the town administrator said. "Both residents as well as our visitors. It was a no-brainer for our community."
Redington Shores modeled its ordinance after Indian Shores. Indian Shores passed a similar ban earlier this year, and while the ordinances are similar, they are not identical. Town officials recommend you read both to make sure you're following the rules in the areas you're fishing.
"We do hope that everyone would also take the opportunity to review it and make the decisions as best for their community," McGlothin said. "We feel this the best for ours."
If you're ever unsure what fish you're allowed to keep or let go, online resources are available to help.
Malique Rankin is a general assignment reporter with 10 Tampa Bay. You can email her story ideas at mrankin@10tampabay.com and follow her Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.