Shark Caught By Local Fisherman In East Haven: Report

EAST HAVEN, CT — It's certainly not an ordinary catch for one local fisherman.

Billy and Capt. Pat Cestaro recently caught a five-foot shark off the East Haven beach. They were looking for striped bass and caught something much bigger. (You can watch video here at WTNH News 8.)

State officials told WTNH News 8 that there are several species of shark in Long Island Sound year-round and that they pose very little risk to humans.

On the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website, there is a page to report shark sightings.

"Sharks play a vital role in keeping our ocean healthy by maintaining the balance of natural marine ecosystems," according to the CT DEEP website.

"Sharks have existed in Connecticut's marine waters for millions of years. They are apex predators, which means they are at the top of the food chain and have few natural predators," according to the CT DEEP website.

"Sharks remove sick and weak individuals from prey populations, they influence prey distribution and behavior, and prevent other species from monopolizing limited natural resources and degrading the marine environment. The presence of sharks is a positive sign of a healthy marine ecosystem," according to the CT DEEP website.

If you've spotted a shark in Connecticut waters, you can fill out this form here.