š¦šØ DRONE-ASSISTED SHARK FISHING BANNED IN TWO JERSEY SHORE TOWNS šØš¦
Police in Bay Head and Mantoloking are banning the use of drones to carry baited shark fishing hooks offshore. Authorities cited state laws prohibiting unmanned aircraft systems for taking wildlife, noting concerns that the practice draws dangerous sharks closer to swimmers.
š OCEAN COUNTY, NJ ā Two Ocean County shore communities are cracking down on the use of drones for shark fishing amid concerns that the practice could bring baited hooks and sharks closer to areas used by swimmers.
Police in Bay Head and Mantoloking announced that fishermen are prohibited from using drones to carry baited hooks offshore.
š Bay Head Police cited New Jersey law prohibiting the use of unmanned aircraft systems to take or assist in taking wildlife. Both departments said they intend to strictly enforce the law.
The issue has generated controversy in recent weeks as drone-assisted shark fishing has gained attention on social media. Local officials and some beachgoers have expressed concerns about the potential safety risks, particularly when large sharks are being caught relatively close to populated beaches.
The debate intensified after a bull shark was caught from the beach in Bay Head during the daytime in July. Additional nighttime catches of bull sharks and a tiger shark at other Jersey Shore locations have also fueled concerns.
š£ Shark fishing from the beach remains legal in New Jersey, but the use of drones to assist in taking wildlife is prohibited under the state law cited by police.
š¦ Despite the recent concerns, there have been no reported shark attacks at the Jersey Shore in 2026.
š GSNN REMINDER: Swimmers should always remain aware of their surroundings, follow posted beach and lifeguard instructions, and avoid entering the water when conditions are considered unsafe.