Shark Fishing From Shore is Discouraged!

Beach officials worry people attempting to catch sharks intentionally

Fort Myers Beach town government thinks new fishing restrictions will help keep swimmers safe from sharks. The town is asking Lee County Parks and Recreation to impose stricter regulations on fishing at the county's pier.

The request comes after two big sharks – including a nine-foot lemon shark – were caught off the pier this summer. One man denied it, but council members worry that people are intentionally fishing for sharks.

They want Parks and Recreation officials to put restrictions on the size of fishing rod and line. 'I think it's a good idea,” said a man who would only identify himself as Chris. “Cause you don't need to bring the sharks in here, but they're already here anyway, they're already here.'

Placing chum in the water to attract sharks is already illegal. People at the pier Friday said they often accidentally catch small sharks. Town officials will meet with Parks and Recreation officials in the next week to talk about the issue."