Massive bull shark sparks debate

Photo of a bull shark caught at Swansea Channel, NSW, according to Offshore Fishing NSW Facebook page.

A PHOTO of huge bull shark caught near Lake Macquarie has created a social media storm.

Facebook page Offshore Fishing NSW shared an image of the dead shark after it was “gut hooked and a huge fight” at Swansea Channel near the NSW city of Newcastle.

“There must be plenty around,” the post said.

The shark towered over the man it was strung up next to and looked to be twice his height but not everyone was impressed with the catch, saying it was a waste of an awesome animal.

“This is pretty sad. Such a magnificent creature. They should be left alone,” one woman posted.

“Unless that shark left HIS HOME and came knocking on your door, he should still be alive and swimming. RIP,” another said.

Others defended it saying people wouldn’t be upset if it was a tuna or marlin.

“So sick of all the shark huggers these days!!!” one man posted.

Another wrote: “the guy caught a fish, it died during the fight … sharks are edible and very tasty at that”.