Redington Beach, FL – Two sharks found cut apart on a Pinellas County beach prompted witness complaints and a review by Florida wildlife officials.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission received reports about two dead sharks discovered Sept. 6 near Redington Beach.
After examining photographs, FWC identified the animals as a bull shark and a blacktip reef shark.
Both species may legally be harvested in Florida, and the agency said its review found no wildlife violations.
Beach visitor Carrie Singh said her family allegedly saw a man remove a shark’s tail Sunday while a hook remained in its mouth.
The remaining carcass was reportedly left on the sand.
Singh also alleged the same person cut up a smaller shark the previous weekend, placed pieces in a kayak and dumped them near swimmers. Her family believed the incidents involved different sharks because of their sizes.
The encounters were reported to FWC, but Singh said the individual left before officers arrived.
Officials did not confirm whether the person held a fishing license or required shark permit.
Florida anglers who target sharks from shore must complete the state’s Shark Smart Fishing course and obtain a free shore-based shark fishing permit.
A recreational saltwater license may also be required.
State regulations require retained sharks to remain whole, with heads, tails and fins attached, until landed.
Anglers may process sharks after legally bringing them ashore.
FWC advises anglers to avoid shark fishing near swimmers or crowded beaches. Chumming from a beach is prohibited.
No one was arrested or charged in connection with the incidents. Suspected wildlife violations can be reported to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline.