Local angler notices disturbing stingray trend [Video]

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A concerned angler has noticed a disturbing trend in people ripping the barbs off of stingrays and releasing the marine life back into the wild. 

Center of Sportfish Science Angler Engagement Coordinator James Sanchez said that stingrays tend to have a negative reputation among the public, which can translate to harmful behavior.

“People are so scared of them they think that they have to cut the barbs off, got to cut the tails off, you know, and there’s no reason to do that,” he said. 

It’s something Sandia resident Jay Hackett said he’s noticed in online fishing groups, prompting him to reach out to 3NEWS. He said he’s seen the act being encouraged in Facebook groups. 

“The comments that I see on people …