Florida Man Takes Photo with Shark, Gets Bitten (Video)

After viewing the footage, one charter boat captain told local news: “I saw that video, and I’m like, ‘what are you guys doing?’ As soon as you lose respect for ‘em, they’re gonna get ya.”

There’s also danger to the shark when doing something like this. The rules may allow for catch-and-release, but meanwhile, the shark is suffering out of its natural habitat. That same concerned charter boat captain added:

“I’ve seen pictures where customers will hold the shark, three or four people…that shark isn’t breathing anymore. You might let it go, and it’ll swim away, but it could have brain damage or something because it hasn’t breathed in a while.”

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, regarding shark fishing, “Sharks are apex predators that play an important role in marine ecosystems. Releasing sharks in a way that increases their chance of survival is an important step toward achieving and maintaining healthy, sustainable shark populations.”

As for the angler who caught the lemon, then got bit, he’s recovering in the hospital. He spoke with local news about the protocol requiring the practice:

“You have to take a class, to make sure you can fish from land for sharks. But that’s whatever. It’s a 30-minute class, and it’s free.”

Had he taken the class?

“No,” he replied.