Gigantic Great White Shark Leaps Out of the Water at a Fisherman’s Boat

The ocean has been a source of food and sustainability for thousands of years. And even though we don’t necessarily need to hunt for our next meal, many people still enjoy the thrill of ocean fishing.

In a recent video, a fisherman is seen baiting the water when something bumps the food. However, instead of the visitor being a hungry fish, something more massive emerges from the water.

Within seconds of moving the lure, a gigantic great white shark bursts through the water and towards the fishing boat. While at first it may look like the great white was aiming its attack at the boat, closer inspection shows it was after the meat on the end of the line.

Encounters like this pose an interesting question as to whether great white sharks actually target boats and people or if there is a big misunderstanding.

In the following sections, we’ll explore where great whites live, how they hunt, what they eat, and how to respond safely in the unlikely event that one approaches your boat.

Where are Great White Sharks Found?

Great whites are one of the most mobile shark species living in coastal and offshore waters worldwide. They generally prefer regions with temperate or subtropical climates, with most encounters occurring in the waters around one of the following areas:

• South Africa
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• California
• Parts of the Mediterranean

Although the locations above are hot zones for great white sharks, the truth is these creatures have a global footprint. 

Scientists have even recorded some individuals traveling thousands of miles between continents as they follow seasonal prey movements.

What Do Great Whites Typically Eat?

Instead of having a consistent diet, great whites change their eating habits as they grow. Juvenile great white sharks tend to feed on fish, squid, and rays, while adults opt for larger prey like sea lions and seals. 

However, great whites are also notorious for their opportunistic feeding ways and will scavenge on dead animals, including whale carcasses. 

How Do Great Whites Hunt?

When most people think about great white sharks, many envision these massive creatures leaping out of the water in pursuit of a seal. However, breaching is only part of the shark’s hunting equation. 

Great whites are incredible hunters who use elements of stealth, speed, and surprise to secure their meals. Instead of attacking head-on, these sharks will often choose to attack from below, using the contrast between the dark ocean and the surface’s light to stay hidden until the last moment. 

Ampullae of Lorenzini

Great white sharks are also equipped with specialized organs called Ampullae of Lorenzini, which detect the electrical signals given off by other animals. This ability allows them to zero in on prey even when visibility is low.

Will Great Whites Attack Boats and People?

Despite what movies may want us to think, great whites don’t actively hunt boats or people. In fact, most interactions with boats result from curiosity or confusion. 

Instead of trying to sink the vessel, most sharks are investigating and may take a test bite of the boat’s motor or bump the hull. In most cases, the shark disengages and swims away shortly after contact.

Human attacks by great whites are also uncommon. However, when they do occur, they’re usually the result of mistaken identity, especially in murky water or near the surface where humans may resemble seals. Of course, other factors such as territorial behavior or curiosity can also contribute to shark attacks.

Even then, the shark often releases the person quickly after realizing it isn’t typical prey.

What Should You Do if a Great White Attacks Your Boat?

As we mentioned, actual encounters with a great white are incredibly rare. However, it’s still good to prepare for a meeting in the event you run across one while at sea. 

Remaining calm and taking the right steps can help de-escalate the situation and ensure everyone stays safe.

Stay Calm and Avoid Sudden Movements

While it can be challenging in the moment, the worst thing you can do is panic. Sharks are often triggered by loud noises or splashing and will investigate further if they think you’re an injured animal. The best thing to do is stay still and avoid moving quickly.

Cut Any Bait Lines or Fishing Gear

Fishing gear, especially baited lines, can attract sharks to the area. If you’re actively fishing when a shark appears, cutting the line and removing any attractants from the water is best. Without the potential food source, most sharks will lose interest and stop hanging around near the boat. 

Don’t Strike the Shark

While it might feel instinctive to defend your vessel, retaliating can provoke the animal and escalate the situation. It’s best to avoid hitting or poking the shark with objects from the boat. Not only could this cause an aggressive reaction, but there’s a chance you’ll fall into the water. 

Stay Inside the Vessel

Like many wild animal encounters, giving great white sharks their space is best. Trying to get a closer look or snap a picture might be tempting, but these animals are fast and unpredictable. One small mistake could lead to you or someone in your crew landing in the water with the shark.

Report the Sighting After the Incident

Once the situation has passed and you’re in a safe location, report the sighting to local authorities or marine wildlife organizations. This helps researchers track shark behavior and may assist in future safety efforts in the area.