Summary
This study evaluated the effectiveness of updated best handling and release practices, as well as a custom-designed shark release ramp, in improving the post-release survival of sharks onboard a U.S. purse seine vessel. 98.5% of sharks were released using the ramp system, with release times averaging under two minutes. 47% of captured sharks exhibited poor or moribund condition at haul-back. Tagging data from three released sharks indicated survival or likely survival post-release. While the ramp system with a hopper improved operational efficiency and enhanced crew safety, wider tagging efforts is needed to validate improved survivability of sharks post-release.