Snorkeler Bit by Mako Shark off Southern California

Mako shark bites snorkeler during baited shark dive 8 miles off Southern California coast

By UWPG News, June 17, 2015

On June 13, 2015 a snorkeler was bit by a mako shark during a baited shark dive 8 miles off the coast of Southern California. These open water shark trips have been growing in popularity with underwater photographers during recent years, with summer proving to be a reliable time for mako shark encounters.

The snorkeler, Elke Specker, was diving off the coast of San Diego with the shark dive charter, Mako Shark Diving, which was using bait and chum to lure in the sharks. Details are still not clear, however one shark bit Elke on the leg, leaving a severe gash. Luckily, no major arteries were damaged. She has posted photos of her leg stitched up and appears to be on the road to recovery.

According to Elke's Facebook page, "The freakiest part was looking down at the tears in my wetsuit, not knowing how much damage was done. Luckily there were no arteries cut or I would have bled to death being 8 miles out from shore."

Two photos from the incident have also been posted on Elke's page. Please note that one photo graphically shows the wound.

Mako Shark bite wound

Mark Shark eating bait

Blue and Mako sharks can be seen off the California coast, with Mako sharks having a reputation for being more aggressive and dangerous. Some shark operators will immediately take snorkelers out of the water if a Mako shark appears that is too big or starts acting too aggressively. Some operators even advocate using a cage with Mako sharks due to their aggressive nature.

Chris Wade, owner of SharkBoat.org, has run several trips in Southern California where people dive or snorkel with sharks such as blue sharks and mako sharks. According to Chris, "Diving with sharks is potentially hazardous, but adverse interactions only happen very rarely. Mako sharks are extremely fast moving and occasionally can show signs of aggression. Additional care and high levels of situational awareness need to be in effect while diving with Mako sharks."

We will be updating this story with more details as we learn them.

Further Reading

• Diver Attacked Underwater - Interview

• Octopus Steals Diver's Camera Rig

• 5 Critters you Must See in the Indo-Pacific

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