California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers are gathering information regarding the shark incident at Manhattan Beach on July 5, 2014. The following is general information, not specific to this incident.
Fishing for most species of sharks, including large sharks such as mako and thresher, is a legal activity in most ocean waters of the state, including the area surrounding Manhattan Beach.
Public piers including Manhattan Beach pier are built for public enjoyment, which includes fishing. Many public piers were constructed specifically for the purpose of fishing. It’s important for ocean users to note, sharks are an integral part of the marine ecosystem and can be found anywhere in ocean waters.
The take of white sharks in California has been prohibited since 1994. In addition, there are a number of marine protected areas off the California coast where no fishing is allowed for any marine species, including sharks.
For more information on ocean sport fishing, please refer to the ocean sport fishing web page.
post by Mary Patyten, CDFW Research Writer
Marine Management News 
Hello again Anne,
As you may know (see earlier response to another comment you made), an investigation including evidence from videos, social media and personal interviews did not provide proof there was intent by the angler to target white sharks. Unless additional evidence is discovered, no charges will be pursued by CDFW in this case.