Shark Attack Trends: A Closer Look at 2025’s Data and What It Means for Surfers
Shark attacks, particularly those resulting in fatalities, saw an increase in 2025, reversing a downward trend observed in 2024. The latest report from the Florida Museum’s International Shark Attack File (ISAF) highlights a concerning uptick, especially for surfers.
Global Attack Numbers: A Slight Rise
Worldwide, there were 65 unprovoked shark bites reported in 2025, slightly above the recent 10-year average of 72. Nine of these bites proved fatal, compared to a ten-year average of six. While shark attacks remain statistically rare – you’re more likely to be injured by a falling coconut – the increase warrants attention.
Surfers at Higher Risk
The ISAF report reveals that surfers consistently experience a disproportionately high rate of unprovoked bites, accounting for 32% of all incidents in 2025. Here’s likely due to several factors, including the time spent in the water, the environments they frequent and the way their movements might resemble those of prey.
United States and Australia: Hotspots for Attacks
The United States led the world in the number of shark attacks in 2025, with Florida accounting for 44% of all U.S. Incidents. Fresh Smyrna Beach, Florida, continues to be known as the “shark bite capital of the world.” Australia followed as the second highest country for reported attacks.
Great White Sharks and Fatalities
The increase in fatal attacks in 2025 may be linked to the growing number of great white sharks observed near beaches popular with surfers, particularly in Australia. The report suggests this could be a result of natural year-to-year variation, but as well acknowledges the increasing presence of these sharks in areas frequented by humans.
Understanding Provoked vs. Unprovoked Bites
It’s important to differentiate between provoked and unprovoked shark bites. Unprovoked bites occur in the shark’s natural habitat without any human initiation of interaction. Provoked bites, happen when a human actively interacts with a shark, such as attempting to feed or touch it. In 2025, the ISAF confirmed 65 unprovoked bites and 29 provoked bites, along with 4 boat bites, 2 scavenge incidents, 1 public aquarium incident, and 3 cases where assignment could not be made.
Beyond Bites: Other Shark-Human Interactions
The ISAF investigates all alleged shark-human interactions, categorizing them beyond just bites. In 2025, this included incidents involving boats, post-mortem scavenging, and cases where injuries couldn’t be definitively attributed to a shark bite.
FAQ
Q: Are shark attacks increasing overall?
A: While there was an uptick in 2025, the global number of unprovoked bites was slightly below the 10-year average.
Q: What can surfers do to reduce their risk?
A: Avoid surfing at dawn or dusk, stay away from areas with baitfish, and be aware of your surroundings.
Q: Are certain sharks more dangerous than others?
A: Great white sharks, bull sharks, and tiger sharks are responsible for the majority of serious attacks.
Q: Is Florida the most dangerous place to swim?
A: Florida has the highest number of shark bites in the U.S., but the risk remains relatively low.
Q: What is the difference between a provoked and unprovoked shark bite?
A: An unprovoked bite occurs when a shark attacks a human in its natural habitat without any human provocation. A provoked bite happens when a human initiates interaction with a shark.
Want to learn more about shark safety and conservation? Visit the International Shark Attack File website for detailed information and resources.
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you ever encountered a shark while surfing or swimming? What safety precautions do you seize?
