like, guy, i was born and raised in texas city. this is the 44th annual tackle time tournament, and they've been hanging sharks up like this until their entrails drag the ground for as long as i can remember, too. i don't like the practice, either. and, i take being called a "tree hugger" as a compliment...i think it takes some brains to understand the importance of conservation, and taking home only what you intend to eat. i've never been able to figure out what kind of testosterone nose hit someone gets out of looking at his gigantic phallic symbol hanging from a meathook, while it rots in the baking sun.
however, the philosopher part of me realizes one thing: for many kids and adults, this is as close as any of them will ever come to seeing a real shark. maybe by seeing these beasts up close, touching their sandpaper skin, and realizing their enormity, power and beauty, and what marvels of evolution they really are, maybe some of them will walk away realizing the importance of preserving all marine life. i know i did as a kid growing up here. nevertheless, i am still very opposed to it. the sharks have been inhabiting this planet for millions of years longer than we have. but until the practice stops, maybe something good does come of it.
i also don't see any indications that the large shark population is in jeopardy at this time, despite man's attempt to obliterate them off the face of the earth.