In both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, blacktip sharks are one of the primary shark species sought out by fishermen. Its meat is high quality and marketed fresh, frozen, or dried and salted. Currently, more blacktip sharks are landed commercially and recreationally than any other large coastal shark species. While fishing for blacktip sharks, fishermen may catch other species of sharks, fin fish, or protected species (also known as bycatch).
In 2006, scientists determined that within the Atlantic Ocean, there were two stocks of blacktip sharks: one in the Gulf of Mexico and one in the Atlantic. In 2012, scientists determined that the stock found in the Gulf of Mexico is not overfished, meaning there are enough blacktip sharks available to keep the stock sustainable. Scientists also determined that overfishing is not occurring; this means that fishermen are not catching more sharks than the population can replace. There is currently insufficient scientific information to determine the status of the Atlantic stock. Due to this uncertainty, in 2013, NOAA Fisheries implemented a new management structure, including new limits on fishing throughout the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.