Imagine being able to track a mako shark as it races through the Gulf, diving deep, cruising along underwater highways, and covering hundreds of miles in a matter of days. Thanks to a new tool called Fin Finder, you can do exactly that.
Developed by the Harte Research Institute (HRI), in partnership with Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and AFTCO, Fin Finder gives the public access to real satellite tracking data of sharks, billfish, and other ocean predators. It’s an interactive map that lets you follow the journeys of individual animals as they move through the ocean in near real-time.
One of those sharks? A fast-moving mako named Buc-ee—tagged and tracked to help researchers understand more about this powerful species and the role it plays in Gulf ecosystems.
Meet Buc-ee and the Other Stars of the Fin Finder Map
Buc-ee the mako is just one of several sharks currently lighting up the Fin Finder platform. Each animal on the map has its own story, travel patterns, and unique role in ocean science. You can click on their profiles to learn where they were tagged, how far they’ve traveled, and why it matters.
“These species are indicators of ocean health. Tracking them gives us valuable insight into their behavior and movement—and helps us protect the ecosystems they rely on,” says Dr. Greg Stunz, HRI’s Endowed Chair for Fisheries and Ocean Health.
Why Shark Tracking Matters
Sharks are top predators, which means their movements can reveal a lot about the balance of life beneath the surface. With species like makos and great whites facing increasing pressure from fishing and environmental change, tools like Fin Finder help scientists, conservationists, and even anglers make smarter decisions to protect them.
And for the rest of us? It’s just plain fascinating to follow these ocean giants in real-time.
Explore the Fin Finder Map:
📍 HRI’s Fin Finder Announcement
🦈 Meet Buc-ee and Other Tagged Sharks
I love the fact this is based on the Texas Coast where I live and involves makos, a species many of our subscribers love.
A few months back we interviewed Dr. Kesley Banks from HRI about the mako tagging work she has been involved with. You can check that out here.
Be on the lookout for a deep dive on Fin Finder from a recent interview with her right here at gulfgreawhites.com.
We salute the work done at the Harte Institute! They are making a difference in understanding Gulf sharks.
Chester Moore
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Email Chester at chester@chestermoore.com.
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