Enjoying the beauty of the ocean during Hawaii fishing charters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. You can admire some of the most incredible natural sights in the world while catching massive fish alongside friends, family members and knowledgeable guides. Still, you might be feeling apprehensive about going anywhere near the ocean if you’re concerned about the possibility of encountering a shark. Many Hollywood blockbusters portray sharks as a common threat to boaters and fishermen, but do you really have to be worried about coming into contact with one of these fish in a real-life situation? Finding out just how uncommon shark attacks are and what kinds of sharks are native to Hawaiian waters might put your mind at ease.
Shark species in Hawaii
Sharks are an important part of traditional Hawaiian culture. Stories about sharks as well as legends of the Hawaiian shark god Kauhuhu have been told through traditional art, storytelling and folklore for centuries. There are over 40 species of sharks that can be spotted off the coasts of Hawaii, including tiger sharks, hammerheads, great whites, Galapagos and white tipped reef sharks. Not all of these shark species pose a significant threat to humans, but most are capable of delivering a nasty bite if provoked.
Frequency of Hawaiian shark attacks
So, should you be worried about being attacked by a shark in Hawaii? The short answer is, not really. On average, just four people in Hawaii are attacked by sharks on an annual basis, and these attacks are usually not fatal. Shark attacks are most common during daylight hours, presumably because this is when because are more likely to be in the water. These shark attacks are especially common among surfers and other people who venture farther away the shoreline.
Staying safe in the ocean
Even though you don’t have much to worry about when it comes to shark attacks to begin with, there are some things that you can do to reduce your risk of encountering a shark even more. For starters, you should always be vigilant. Avoid swimming in water that’s murky, since you’re less likely to see a shark nearby. You should also avoid entering the water under any circumstances if you are bleeding, even a little bit. Swimming with a partner or a group of people is also important, since sharks are less likely to pursue people who are present as part of a group. Regardless of whom you are swimming with, make sure to stay close to the shore if possible. While you’re on Hawaii fishing charters, make sure to ask the crew about precautions you should take to avoid attracting sharks.
Learn more about Hawaii fishing charters
Don’t waste your time on vacation worrying about sharks—spend it having a blast on Hawaii fishing charters instead! At Sea Wife Charters, we specialize in helping people from all around the world enjoy an unforgettable experience out on the water in Hawaii. Browse our website to find out more about the charter options that we offer, and then give us a call to make your reservation!