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Board adopts seasonal restriction on shark-targeting fishing after beach safety concerns
Summary
The board approved an ordinance limiting shark-targeting shoreline fishing (including drone-assisted techniques) from May 1–Oct. 31, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., citing safety concerns for beachgoers and lifeguards. Violations will be enforced under the town's general penalty code.
Following presentations by the police chief, the Nags Head Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted an ordinance restricting fishing that targets sharks on busy beaches during the town’s peak season. The measure applies from May 1 through Oct. 31 and restricts shark-targeting activity between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., the hours the chief said beaches reach capacity and lifeguard staffing is concentrated.
The chief described recent incidents of drone-assisted fishing that attracted sharks near crowded areas and prompted confrontations with beachgoers. "It doesn't make good sense to do that type of fishing when our beaches and waterways are at capacity," the chief said, urging a time-of-day seasonal restriction. The ordinance is not a total ban on shark fishing; it allows the activity outside the specified dates and hours.
If adopted, the town intends to use its chapter-one enforcement provisions for penalties. Commissioners asked for the enforcement approach to be applied consistently and to revisit the regulation if additional evidence or enforcement issues emerge.
