NewsKTLA 5October 27, 2026Los Angeles County
Kayaker David Slavich encounters great white shark off Northern California coast
Photo: KTLA 5
A kayaking fisherman named David Slavich had a close encounter with a great white shark off the coast of Northern California on Sunday after hearing a sound in the water and seeing the shark swim past his watercraft. The shark did not attack him, and Slavich quickly pulled his fishing gear from the water while recording the moment on his phone.
Read the full story at KTLA 5Why It Matters
A local fisherman experienced a direct wildlife encounter in regional waters, prompting immediate reactions regarding water safety and equipment handling.
Key Facts
- David Slavich encountered a great white shark while fishing from a kayak off the coast of Northern California on Sunday.
- A paddleboarder had warned Slavich prior to the incident about a great white swimming nearby.
- The shark swam directly alongside the kayak without attacking.
- Slavich pulled his fishing rig out of the water and braced for impact during the encounter.
- Slavich recorded the encounter on his smartphone.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationKRON4“San Francisco news outlet that first reported the encounter”locationHalf Moon Bay“Area near where Slavich was fishing”locationSan Francisco“City associated with reporting outlet KRON4”locationNorthern California“Region where the encounter took place”PersonAndrea Slavich“Wife of David Slavich”PersonDavid Slavich“Kayaking fisherman who encountered the shark”