If you happen to see a shark while spearfishing, it is important to stay calm and act quickly. Sharks are naturally curious and often come close to investigate people in the water, but it is rare for them to attack.
There are several steps you should take if you encounter a shark during your spearfishing expedition.
1. Remain Calm – The most important thing to do if you encounter a shark while spearfishing is to remain calm and do not panic. Making sudden movements or splashing around can agitate the shark, so it is best to stay still and watch the shark from a distance.
2. Back Away Slowly – Once you have identified the shark, slowly back away from it by swimming in the opposite direction. It is best not to turn your back on the shark as this could be interpreted as a threat.
3. Do Not Make Eye Contact – Avoid making direct eye contact with the shark as this could be interpreted as aggressive behaviour. Keeping your eyes on the animal will also help you stay aware of its movements.
4.
Refrain From Touching The Shark – If possible, do not touch the animal or try to scare it away with your hands or feet as this could cause it to become agitated and potentially attack.
5. Alert Other Divers In The Area – If there are other divers nearby, alert them of the presence of a shark so that they can take necessary safety measures.
Conclusion:
It is important to remember that sharks rarely attack humans and they usually just come close out of curiosity or for food sources like fish caught by spearfishers. By remaining calm, backing away slowly, avoiding eye contact, refraining from touching the animal, and alerting other divers in the area when needed, you can reduce your risk of an unexpected encounter with a shark while spearfishing.
