Recreational angling for shortjaw bonefish is popular in Hawaii, Cook Islands, Christmas Island, and French Polynesia. Anglers must be cautious when angling in some Pacific destinations because of the high rates of post-release predation that released bonefish can experience by sharks. Reef sharks on sandy flats are highly capable predators that can detect injured or stressed bonefish and research has shown that high numbers of bonefish can be eaten very soon after release.
Recreational fishing for shortjaw bonefish is popular in Hawaii, Cook Islands, Christmas Island, and French Polynesia. Anglers must exercise caution when fishing in these Pacific locations because sharks pose a significant threat to released bonefish. Reef sharks on sandy areas are powerful predators that can detect injured or stressed bonefish, and research indicates that many bonefish can be consumed soon after release.