Six Gill Shark Bill

Washington should designate the Sixgill Shark as its official state shark because no other species better represents the depth, mystery, and ecological importance of our coastal waters. Living in the deep waters of Puget Sound and along Washington’s outer coast, sixgills are ancient survivors—largely unchanged for over 200 million years—and play a crucial role as apex predators that help keep marine ecosystems in balance. Their presence so close to our urban shorelines is a powerful reminder that Washington is home to one of the most biodiverse and scientifically significant marine environments in the world. Naming the Sixgill Shark as the state shark would celebrate our unique marine heritage, highlight the importance of ocean conservation, and inspire pride and stewardship for the waters that define Washington.