Transforming Fisheries

HOW ARE WE TRANSFORMING FISHERIES?

Sharks should be caught sustainably or not at all. The key to this is to highlight differences between species, rather than similarities.

For some sharks the only way forward is a complete ban on fishing. But for others, sustainable management should be possible. Positive change means advocating for policy reform, developing skills in the fishing industry and ensuring the enforcement of legislation and catch limits.

Appropriate management can only happen if all sharks caught can be correctly identified and recorded. This is the driver behind our work to transform fisheries.

There are some key steps in the transition to sustainability:

FINS ATTACHED: An enforced finning ban is a vital first step in the process. All sharks caught should be brought to shore with their fins naturally attached to their bodies.
IDENTIFICATION: Fishermen and fisheries managers need the tools and skills to correctly identify and record their catch.
CATCH LIMITS: Unlimited and unmanaged fisheries by definition are not sustainable. Science-based catch limits must be applied to commercial catches.
CHAMPIONING SUSTAINABILITY: We need to link sustainably caught fish with responsible supply chains and reward responsible fisheries.

Find out more about how we're working to transform fisheries by clicking the links below:

No Limits? Campaign

Help vulnerable shark species in the Atlantic by supporting our No Limits? campaign. Let's stop uncontrolled shark fishing. Read more

Stop Shark Finning Campaign

Shark finning has for many years been a central issue in shark conservation. Find out more about the current state of affairs and what we're doing to end finning. Read more

Sustainable Fisheries Project (UK)

For some shark species, we believe well managed fisheries could be the key to a sustainable future. Find out more about this project and why we're supporting sustainability in English shark, skate & ray fisheries. Read more

Fisheries Advisories

Our Commercial Fisheries Advisories provide rapid access to the current legislative status of sharks, skates and rays in UK, EU and international waters. Read more

High-Seas Management

We advocate for sharks and push for science-based management of high-seas fisheries through Regional Fisheries Management Bodies (RFMOs). Read more

Latest

CREATURE FEATURE: Zebra Shark

Tan in colour with lots of dark brown spots, adult Zebra Sharks are often confused for Leopard Sharks. But, when they’re young they look very different...

Sharks Matter - Here's Why Series (Part 2)

I don’t know about you but I’m always being asked why we should save sharks. Ask the Great White Shark...

CREATURE FEATURE: Angel Sharks

Angel sharks have unusually flexible ‘necks’. Allowing them to raise their heads and trap-like jaw to snap up prey at high speed.

Paul&Shark - New Corporate Patron

Paul&Shark become the latest company to sign up as Corporate Patrons of the Trust - supporting and promoting our work across the globe.

18 Shark & Ray Species Granted New Global Trade Controls at Wildlife Conference

Makos, Wedgefishes, and Giant Guitarfishes listed under CITES with support from more than 100 countries.

Great Eggcase Hunt

Find and record empty shark eggcases that have washed up on the beach. Eggcase hunting is great fun for all ages! Click here to find everything you need to get started.

Male & Female Sharks

How do you tell the difference between a male and female shark? Click here to find out about physical and behavioural differences, as well as shark courtship...

Shark Taxonomy

Taxonomy is a field of science that involves classifying and naming species. It's integral to wildlife conservation, providing the bedrock for our understanding of sharks.

Shark Anatomy

Sharks have a range of adaptations that make them perfectly suited to their environment. It's no wonder they've gained a reputation for being some of the most impressive and formidable predators on the planet!

Shark boy helps shark trust

My name is Zachary and I'm 9 years old. I Love sharks and really want to be able to help save the sharks from becoming extinct. I recently snorkelled with baby sharks and got to look at real eggcases (some with live babies inside). Next year I'd like to scuba dive with sharks and see how I can help them.