local
Longtime fisherman hooks 300-pound bull shark while tarpon fishing
By KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS)
· June 27, 2026
· 1 min read
CRAVEN COUNTY, N.C. (WITN/Gray News) - A fisherman says he encountered more than he bargained for on a recent trip out on the Neuse River. Michael Starkie was by Green Springs Thursday morning, trying to catch a tarpon, when instead he came across a bull shark. Starkie said he had been fishing fo...
Key takeaway He says he’s been fishing for more than 30 years in Eastern North Carolina, and this was the biggest bull shark he’s ever come across.
Why this matters in The Midland
While this dramatic catch occurred far from Midland , the story resonates with local anglers who know the thrill of reeling in an unexpected prize. For those familiar with the fishing spots around Midland, the idea of battling a massive shark is a distant concern, given the freshwater lakes and lack of shark habitats in the area. However, the tale of Michael Starkie's encounter serves as a reminder to Midland's own fishing enthusiasts of the unpredictability and excitement that can come with the sport. As Midland residents look to their own fishing holes, such as the ponds and lakes on the outskirts of town, they can appreciate the skill and experience that Starkie brought to his encounter with the bull shark. The story also highlights the value of experience and local knowledge in fishing, much like the expertise that Midland's own longtime fishermen have developed in navigating the unique conditions of the Permian Basin's waterways.
About this story
Original reporting by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . The Midland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 27, 2026 ·
Source: KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? CRAVEN COUNTY, N.C. (WITN/Gray News) - A fisherman says he encountered more than he bargained for on a recent trip out on the Neuse River. Michael Starkie was by Green Springs Thursday morning, trying to catch a tarpon, when instead he came across a bull shark. Starkie said he had been fishing fo...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 27, 2026 by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) and curated for The Midland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS). To learn more about how The Midland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Midland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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