Fisherman Reels In Great White Shark From Nantucket's South Shore

A fisherman reeled in a great white shark on Nantucket’s south shore on Sunday, as dozens of people gathered on the beach to watch and record the spectacle.

Elliot Sudal has been fishing for sandbar sharks and other species during the summers for more than a decade. On Sunday, he was out fishing on the south shore with his apprentice, Stone Fornes, and fellow angler Nathan Skerritt, when they realized they had a big one on the line.

Watch a video of the encounter below:

The Current caught up with Sudal on Monday to ask about the catch that has since made headlines in Boston and beyond.

Q: What were you fishing for?

A: We were just out testing the waters, conditions looked great, just wanted to see if anything was around. Everything has been showing up earlier the last few years, sandbar sharks, duskys, sand tigers, roughtail rays. The water’s still in the 50s, but they’re here.

Q: What are the rules for this type of fishing?

A: That was the first white I’ve hooked in 13 years on Nantucket. Caught 1000-plus sandbars and hundreds of duskys off the beach, tagged most of them along the way. By no means was targeting that white, you can’t control what picks up your bait. I posted that video because I feel like I did everything right in that situation. Shark was in the surf, removed the hook and sent her back to sea in about 15 seconds. If you are into shark fishing here, use appropriate heavy tackle, barbless circle hooks, and release immediately. Take the online course, get involved with a tagging program. Understand people are watching you, respect the animal and be safe.

Q: What did you do when you realized it was a white?

A: Saw the spotted pectoral fin flash in a wave and just focused. Understood the gravity of the situation and had to get her released safely and quickly. Amazing creature, humbled to be blessed with the opportunity to interact with one. Had a great crew helping with everything, she swam off strong, not something we will ever forget.