Episode 734: What’s Up With all These Damn Sharks?

What this episode covers

Renown TV shot host, podcaster and former fishing guide Tom Rowland of the Saltwater Experience and Tom Roland Podcast joins the show this week. We discuss his modest beginnings in the fishing industry to where he is today. The former fishing guide has seen much change in his beloved Florida Keys, but nothing in recent memory is as concerning as the increase in shark depredation on fishing vessels. (hammerhead attacks a fisherman’s tarpon) We discuss the phenomenon and why Tom believes there are more sharks today than at any time in modern history. The reality that sharks are doing quite well along America’s coast is causing quite a few issues for the fishing community and even pitting angler against angler in some situations. Is there a simple solution to fix the shark problem? We discuss in detail. Other highlights include: * So you want to be a fishing guide? * From guide to tournament angler to TV show host * The hidden gems in podcasting * What’s up with NOAA Fisheries and the one day Atlantic Coast red snapper season? * An old photo and some modern day grouper conservation * Florida’s water issues * Permit on the fly * Shark Fin Soup * “Finning Sharks” * What products can be made from sharks? (Tom with one of his most prized catches, permit on the fly)