Sharkbanz co-founder Nathan Garrison recalls an encounter while surfing in South Africa a couple of years ago.
As an experienced surfer with knowledge of shark safety, Nathan took the necessary precautions before paddling out. He knew Great White sharks frequented the spot where he would be surfing and therefore equipped himself with a Sharkbanz x Modom shark deterrent leash and wrist wearable.
Not long into his session, he was in between waves when two fins emerged from the water about 70 meters away. With a clear mind, he noticed both a dorsal fin and caudal (tail) fin when the figure re-emerged, a tell-tale sign that he was dealing with a shark and not a dolphin or whale. Sharks have vertical caudal fins, whereas the tail fins of dolphins and whales are horizontal. The fact that he could see the shark’s tail fin also indicated that it was large, as smaller species’ tail fins are less prominent.
His training immediately kicked in — he remained calm and paddled efficiently toward shore, catching a small wave to the beach.