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

HELP SAVE THE SHARKS PLS <3

This website looks like a great place to get my friends and family aware of whats going with these endangered animals. Sharks all over the world, especially whale sharks are facing population declines from being hunted for shark fin soup, which is an Asian delicacy. These animals could be extinct by 2050 if we don't take action.

Shark Trust Lockdown Everest Challenge

I am 9 years old and the other day I watched a documentary about sharks. At the end of it, there was a picture of a dead Mako Shark on the bottom of the sea with its fin chopped off. So I thought if I fundraise, the Shark Trust Can Make a difference to that.

Basking Shark Fundraiser

Helping Basking Sharks in the Northeast Atlantic.

Fancy a Challenge?

Why not join us this Sunday for the 2.6 challenge? Raise a smile, raise your heart-rate and, possibly, raise some funds. #twopointsixchallenge

Canada Protects Endangered Mako Sharks with Groundbreaking Atlantic Ban

Canada announces groundbreaking move to protect Shortfin Mako in the Atlantic after a sustained campaign by the Shark League to follow the advice of ICCAT scientists.

For the Love of Sharks 2020

Due to Covid-19 this event has been postponed until the 25th September. Early bird tickets are now on sale. We look forward to seeing you in the Autumn.

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.

ID Guide Introductory Pages

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.

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.

Landings of Endangered Rays in Tunisia Denounced

Conservation groups are calling for answers and action in relation to the landing of Endangered Giant Devil Rays in Kelibia, Tunisia, in contravention of international agreements to protect the species.

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!

Stuck for Ideas this Easter?

We’ve got an Easter Egg Hunt with a difference that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Back by popular demand our Indoor Easter Eggcase Hunt Trail can be done in the home or garden!