Global Perception of Chumming is Negative

It is globally identified as a negative activity, some areas in the world like Alabama, people are fined for chumming. David Rainer writes an article about shark baiting regulations in Alabama and says “It’s one of those situations where if people use common sense there shouldn’t be a problem. If you see people swimming it doesn’t make sense to throw chum out there. A lot of people don’t realize that the chum will drift down on someone else and potentially get someone hurt.”. David Rainer, 2008. Shark Baiting Regulation Effect. [online] Available at: http://www.outdooralabama.com/oaonline/sharkbait08.cfm (accessed 21 April 2012)

It is not banned in all countries. In fact its permitted in more countries than it is banned. It seems as though very few places have realized the impact it has on our environment or the fact that people generally don’t use their common sense about it and over indulge in the technique of attracting sea animals, leaving damage. 

The places in the world where it is used sensibly without harming any people or sea life, are using it in far away areas which are secluded from popular beaches.  Australia is another country which has beautiful beaches which are constantly full with people swimming, surfing, snorkeling etc. They also have is great white inhabitants, and according to the South Australia Conservation Council, “90% of Australians live on the coast.” But clearly they are handling their chumming problem more sensibly than we have. South Australia Conservation Council, 2012. Coast and Marine in a Changing Climate. [online] Available at: http://www.conservationsa.org.au/coast-and-marine-in-a-changing-climate/402-coast-and-marine-in-a-changing-climate.html (accessed 21 April 2012)

 Hank Van der Wisgaart a fisherman of the Neptune Islands of Australia says, “Neptune Islands are very remote. Chumming is far form popular beaches and there is little shark activity. The area is restricted and you cant get there without a large boat and travelling a far way.” ABC News, 2007. Shark Feeding Frenzy may become thing of the Past. [video online] Available at http://www.zigzag.co.za/features/exclusives/8127/Australian-experts-suggest-chumming-does-change-great-white-behaviour. [accessed 21 April 2012]

 If it is necessary to use chumming at all, this is how it should be done. Far away from popular beaches and shores, not causing any harm to the environment around.

Travel Pod, 2012. Sea Lions at Neptune Islands. [image online] Available at: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-photo/bryanbastian/1/1258180054/sea-lions-at-neptune-island.jpg/tpod.html [accessed 21 April 2012]

Satellite View of Neptune Islands, 2012. [image online] Available at: http://www.tageo.com/index-e-as-v-05-d-m2252538.htm [accessed 21 April 2012]