On the morning of Saturday, March 15, seasoned shark fishermen Luke Beard and Jason Rosenfield embarked on a fishing expedition…
On the morning of Saturday, March 15, seasoned shark fishermen Luke Beard and Jason Rosenfield embarked on a fishing expedition out on the beaches of Hatteras Island, OBX. They were equipped with an Italian-made Alutecnos 80 S2 conventional reel mounted on a custom 80-120 lb. rod, and the duo set up their gear on the beach, secured the rod in a sand spike, and then used a kayak to drop a tuna head 350 yards off the beach, past the last sandbar where the big fish call home.
Their efforts paid off spectacularly when they hooked a massive Great White Shark, estimated to be 12-13 feet long and weighing between 1,100-1,500 pounds. The fish was brought in within just 35 minutes and had a quick, safe release that allowed the shark to swim off strong.
By applying minimal pressure during the fight, they ensured the shark remained calm, allowing for a smoother and more controlled retrieval. This approach not only highlights their skill but also underscores their deep understanding of shark behavior and fishing dynamics.
Initially, Beard and Rosenfield shared photos of their catch on their personal accounts, not seeking much attention, partially because shark fishing often receives hate by uninformed audiences. However, the images quickly went viral after being posted on a popular fishing group page on Facebook. The story was soon featured on numerous news stations across North Carolina and even caught the attention of the New York Post and People Magazine.
The virality of the photos is no surprise, given the rarity and impressiveness of landing a Great White Shark, even within the Land Based Shark Fishing (LBSF) community. Additionally, the public’s fascination with sharks, significantly fueled by iconic movies like Jaws, has greatly contributed to the widespread interest in these creatures. This fascination often translates into a heightened awareness and curiosity among beachgoers, who are both intrigued and cautious about the possibility of encountering sharks while enjoying the ocean.
Despite their extensive experience with shark fishing, this catch was extraordinary even for Beard and Rosenfield. It represented the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition, as both men have been passionately engaged in shark fishing for over 20 years.
The duo’s next goal is to catch bluefin tuna by kite fishing off the beach.
