Sharkbanz Fishing WA Government (DPIRD) Shark Deterrent Product Testing Results (2021) - Highlights

In conjunction with Recfishwest, the Government of Western Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) conducted a year-long series of tests on shark deterrent products to "mitigate shark depredation in line fishing across Western Australian fishing sectors." Sharkbanz Fishing prototype products (precursors to the Zeppelin) were included in this study.
The study was the first to document the different methods fishers are using to minimize shark depredation.
Location of tests included: NW WA, Exmouth, Montebello Islands, Murion Islands.
Species landed included: Trevallies, Cods, Wrasse, Emperors, Snappers, etc.
Key Conclusions: "The proportion of fish depredated by sharks is much lower (65%) when using a [shark] deterrent ... Depredation devices effective in reducing depredation rates."
Key Finding: "Deterrents do not stop sharks taking fish, but enable you to land a greater proportion of hooked fish."
Key Discovery: "Sharkbanz Fishing devices invoked avoidance behaviors when sharks approached hooked fish."
Full study via WA DPIRD to be published in 2022.