Christopher Stefanou, an angler and social media influencer from New York, has received a ban from Massachusetts following a court case concerning his actions. The YouTuber, who goes by LISHARKMAN online, is facing legal troubles for allegedly capturing a great white shark, a species under protection, in Cape Cod in October 2025. He attended an arraignment on October 21, 2026, at Barnstable Superior Court, where his bail was set at $10,000.
Stefanou is facing multiple charges, which include animal cruelty towards the shark. According to officials, he took a client from Europe to Cape Cod for a fishing trip last year. Videos shared on his social media reportedly show him using a drone and other tools to capture a 9.5-foot great white shark, referred to as “Aaron the Shark.” The group is said to have photographed themselves with the shark on the beach before releasing it.
As a result of his actions, the district attorney’s office has announced the charges against him. During his arraignment, the judge instructed Stefanou to remove social media content where he poses with the shark. He is now banned from entering Massachusetts, must give up his fishing license, and is not allowed to post any new videos. His latest full-length YouTube video was uploaded on August 30, 2025. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 11.
Stefanou’s attorney, Jon A. Ciraulo, declared that his client is innocent. He suggested that Stefanou values the sport, participates in conservation efforts, and helps with marine tagging and research. The lawyer emphasized that the charges are unproven allegations and that Stefanou plans to contest them fully.
On his website, Stefanou presents himself as a dedicated angler who specializes in land-based shark fishing in Long Island but also fishes in other East Coast states. He offers fishing charters for those interested in the experience. Reactions from social media users have been mixed; while some acknowledge his skills and conservation efforts, many believe he should face consequences for breaking the law.
Massachusetts has strict rules regarding great white sharks to protect them and ensure public safety. Laws prohibit the intentional targeting, capturing, or harvesting of this species in many parts of the state’s coastline. Fishing regulations around Cape Cod Bay and the Outer Cape specify that anglers cannot use certain types of baited hooks and leaders.
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Source: Bored Panda, by Analice Couto