Posted by jas on June 28, 2002 at 00:39:58:
In Reply to: Big water posted by Finaddict on June 26, 2002 at 22:36:36:
I don't really know anything about the conditions in the Gulf. I know here in California for most fishable kayak launchable areas, some days it may look like a lake, and some days it might look like the North Shore of Oahu. Some days you can take a newbie out for a paddle, and on other days it not safe for any vessel under 100ft in length. For the most part you just watch the weather and pick your windows of kayak fishing opportunity. (Safety Spew>>>>Know your limitations and always study the weather reports before launching.
Thresher sharks can be dangerous, but not because of their agressive feeding behaviour or size of their teeth. But because of the sheer weight and strength of them. I think the most danger comes when the kayaker tries to land one, either keeping it for tablefare or releasing it. When your line gets slacked and you're not paying attention while holding one.....that line could get wrapped around someones's neck and the shark could get loose....A few things could go very wrong along those lines.
Well, they do have a NASTY tail that could whip the skin off your face(or worse) if not careful. Since they stun prey under the water with their tail, you know they got some juice behind them. I'd still keep my hand away from their mouth, but you don't have to worry about them intentionally munching on your or your kayak. I read once somewhere that the only reporting Thresher shark attack was I think reported in to have occured in England. It was an accidental
bumping that happened between a couple of swimmers. It was classified as a shark attack though totally unintentional, and inflicted zero damage.
I'm a little(A LOT) intimidated by Hammerheads. Though we do have GWs (I've not seen one, but I know of a few that have). Not so much the reef sharks. They be cool!
How's the fishing been for you out there lately?
jas-