Shark Attacks Man in Kayak

A kayaker from Eureka, Calif., was fishing in Shelter Cove on the California coast when he was reportedly attacked Monday by a great white shark estimated to be between 16’ (4.88 m) and 18’ (5.49 m) long. A spokesperson for the Shelter Cove fire department told lostcoastoutpost.com that Michael Thallheimer was fishing at around 7:30 Monday morning when the incident took place.

Drawn to Blood

Thallheimer was reportedly staying at the campground in Shelter Cove and he decided to head out fishing on an ocean kayak. He had caught several ling cod and the blood from the fish that were on the boat was seeping into the ocean. Soon after, the shark struck and Thallheimer allegedly punched the shark to fend it off.

But the damage had been done. The attack punctured the kayak and it was taking on water. Thallmeier dialed 911 and responders were preparing for a rescue but before they could get to his position, he dropped his phone and car keys into the water.

Right before fire department personnel located him near a buoy, local fishermen pulled Thallheimer, who was wearing a lifejacket, out of the water. They towed in his kayak and wrapped him in blankets. He was released without needing additional treatment.

Proper Equipment

If Thallheimer and other kayakers plan to continue to head out on the water alone, BoatTEST.com recommends he purchase an ACR ResQLink personal locator beacon or similar device that can be instantly sent a distress call and provide location information.