Two Great White Sharks Hooked, Released Off MB Pier

Updated at 5:22 p.m. to reflect the hook and release of two great white sharks Tuesday.

Two great white sharks were hooked and released by the same fisherman on the Manhattan Beach Pier Tuesday, Eric Martin, director of The Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium at the end of the pier, told Patch Tuesday. The great white is a protected species and both sharks were released Tuesday morning when Martin cut the fisherman's line.

Martin, who reports seeing two other great white sharks recently in the area, said an abundance of squid could be attracting juvenile white sharks. 

• Previously: Great White Shark Caught off MB Pier
• Previously: 
• Previously: PHOTOS: Great White Shark in MB Waters

Martin has previously told Patch that Santa Monica Bay is a nursery for baby great whites who feed on fish. 

Since 1994, great white sharks have been a protected species in California. The unlawful taking and possession of one is a misdemeanor, with penalties that include large fines and jail time.