Ragged-tooth sharks: hotspots for diving and ethical angling

AS A MARINE enthusiast, I am thrilled to share my knowledge about encountering ragged-tooth sharks, also known as sand tiger or grey nurse sharks, in South Africa.

These fascinating creatures can be found in warm-temperate and tropical waters worldwide, and South Africa is one of the best places to experience them. Diving with ragged-tooth sharks South Africa is renowned for its incredible shark encounters, and ragged-tooth sharks are no exception.

The best locations for diving with these magnificent creatures are:

Aliwal Shoal: A popular spot for shark encounters, particularly during mating season from May to November.

Protea Banks: Another hotspot for shark diving, offering a chance to see these amazing creatures up close.

Sodwana Bay: A  great spot to see pregnant females from November to February.

When diving with ragged-tooth sharks, it's essential to maintain a safe distance, stay calm, and follow guide instructions to ensure a peaceful encounter.

Catch-and-release fishing: In some areas, recreational shore angling is permitted, but catch-and-release is often required due to conservation laws.

If you're planning to catch ragged-tooth sharks, it's crucial to follow best practices.

Minimise handling time:

Handle the shark as little as possible to reduce stress and prevent injury. Use wet hands or gloves. This will help prevent removing the shark's protective mucus layer. Correctly remove hooks. Use a hook remover or pliers to carefully remove the hook, taking care not to cause further injury.

Hotspots for catching Ragged-tooth sharks:

Port St John's: Known for its rich marine life, this spot offers a chance to catch ragged-tooth sharks.

East London: A popular spot for shark fishing, with ragged-tooth sharks being a sought-after catch.

Jeffrey's Bay: Famous for its incredible surf and fish, Jeffrey's Bay is another hotspot for ragged-tooth shark fishing. KZN North Coast: The stretch from Tugela North Bank to Sodwana Bay is known for its ragged-tooth shark population.

When targeting ragged-tooth sharks, it's essential to use the right gear, including:

Ragged-tooth sharks are attracted to large, oily baits like bonito or mullet.

Carbon steel wire trace: This type of trace is strong enough to withstand the shark's powerful jaws. These sharks are listed on the IUCN Red List due to their slow reproductive rates and vulnerability to human pressures.

To safeguard the species and their habitats, conservation efforts are underway: Laws are in place to regulate fishing and protect breeding sites.

Ecotourism can support conservation efforts and promote the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.

Ongoing research programs aim to better understand Ragged-tooth shark behaviour, habitat, and population dynamics.

Encountering Ragged-tooth sharks in South Africa is an exhilarating experience that requires respect, care, and a commitment to conservation.

By supporting responsible ecotourism and adhering to conservation regulations, we can help ensure the long-term survival of these incredible creatures. 

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