A California fisherman experienced a terrifying close encounter with a great white shark when the massive predator swam just inches to a few feet from his kayak off Half Moon Bay on October 25, 2026. David Slavich was fishing approximately 1.5 miles offshore when he suddenly heard a splash behind his shoulder and turned to see an enormous dorsal fin and shadow approaching his vessel. The shark appeared larger than his 12.5-foot kayak, leaving him visibly shaken as he realized what was swimming alongside him. Video footage captured the startling moment, including Slavich repeatedly exclaiming in disbelief as he quickly pulled his fishing line out of the water and prepared for a possible impact. The shark eventually passed without touching the kayak, leaving Slavich unharmed but deeply shaken by an encounter he later described as one of the most frightening experiences of his life. 

Despite the frightening experience, Slavich remained on the water and continued fishing for another three to four hours before heading back. He later explained that great white sharks are often curious when encountering people, although their size and strength make even a close approach potentially dangerous. The encounter also prompted him to reconsider fishing alone, saying he plans to use the buddy system during future ocean trips. The timing is notable because autumn coincides with seasonal movements of great white sharks along California's coastline, where areas near seal colonies provide important hunting grounds. Marine experts have emphasized that shark sightings do not necessarily indicate an increased likelihood of an attack, and direct contact between sharks and people remains relatively rare. Slavich's footage nevertheless offers a startling reminder of how unexpectedly close large marine predators can come to people enjoying California's coastal waters.