A mayor of a New Jersey beach town issued a plea for swimmers to stay safe after sharks were lured near the shore [1].
The warning highlights a growing conflict between recreational swimmers and fishermen using modern technology to attract predators in coastal waters. This activity increases the risk of shark encounters in areas where people frequently bathe.
According to the mayor, the increase in shark activity is tied to specific fishing methods [2]. Fishermen have been utilizing kayaks and drones to chum the water, a process of dispersing bait to attract fish [2]. This practice is bringing sharks directly into areas frequented by swimmers [2].
One mayor [1] issued the warning, describing the current state of the local coastline. The official said the situation has created a dangerous environment for beachgoers.
"Our beaches are becoming ‘Jaws’ all over again," the mayor said.
The use of drones for chumming allows fishermen to place bait further from the shore or in specific patterns, which can draw large predators closer to the beach than they might naturally venture. The mayor said that fishermen using kayaks and drones to chum the water are bringing sharks right up to swimmers [2].
Local authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant while in the water. The administration is emphasizing the importance of safety as these fishing practices continue to affect the local ecosystem, and public safety on the Jersey Shore.
“"Our beaches are becoming ‘Jaws’ all over again."”
This situation illustrates the tension between traditional fishing practices and the introduction of remote technology in public waterways. By using drones to chum, fishermen can manipulate predator movement with precision, potentially overriding the natural distance sharks maintain from crowded swimming areas. This may lead to increased calls for regulation regarding the use of drones and kayaks for baiting in designated recreational zones along the U.S. coast.
