Swim in ‘quiet areas’ of the ocean to avoid shark attacks: shark researchers

Shark researchers are advising beachgoers to stay in calmer waters to reduce the risk of shark encounters. Chris Fischer, founder of OCEARCH, discussed this summer’s spike in shark attacks, highlighted by a bull shark incident that closed a New York beach and a recent attack on a swimmer in Queens as well as a child in shallow waters in Florida. Fisher pointed out that shark populations have returned to their 1960s levels and recommended avoiding swimming when prey fish are active for safety.

A content creator from New Zealand, Henry Gibbs, experienced a severe shark bite while diving in Fiji. Earlier this month, while spearfishing near a South Pacific island, a gray reef shark attacked him. The injury required extensive surgeries and skin grafts on his right leg, but he fortunately retained full use of it.

Gibbs stated, “I didn’t have any hard feelings towards sharks. I was looking for shark food in that environment.” Recently, he shared an image from his hospital bed on social media.

Reflecting on the incident, Gibbs commented on the chaotic environment leading to the attack, where he and his team had encountered several gray reef sharks while spearfishing.

“We were diving in clear blue water when one particularly active shark began circling beneath us. There were signs that it was becoming agitated,” he explained. “In retrospect, that should have been enough of a warning to reconsider our dive.” Gibbs noted that he had typically encountered less aggressive sharks back in New Zealand and misjudged the shark’s behavior in Fiji.

Now, he aims to share lessons learned from the unfortunate event. His first piece of advice is to exit the water if a shark shows signs of increased aggression. He also recommends using a black wetsuit in tropical waters. Gibbs mentioned hearing about various incidents involving divers in camouflage suits being targeted by gray reef sharks. He emphasized that divers shouldn’t ignore erratic shark behavior and shouldn’t underestimate the potential risk based on size.

Gibbs teased that more graphic footage of the attack exists but hasn’t decided whether to share it. He appreciates the support he’s received since the incident, thanking medical staff and loved ones for their care. He concluded, “You can add spearfishing near gray reef sharks in Fiji to the list of activities I won’t be trying again.”