NorCal Kayak Anglers

Kayak Fishing Zone => Safety First => Topic started by: FishingAddict on July 07, 2012, 07:06:15 PM

Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: FishingAddict on July 07, 2012, 07:06:15 PM
7/13/12 New information just shared by authorities:

"The shark was estimated by your accounts and the physical evidence as being possibly 14 to 16 ft long which would be a very large Great White Shark! Your shark could have been about one ton potentially or approximately 2,000.00 pounds."


First of all I would like to thank my guardian angels who helped me survive my encounter with an apex predator today.

Hooked up with Kirk (LilRiverman) hoping to get some WSB or Halibut today.  Kirk agreed to carpool and use his van for our drive to Capitola.  As we were unloading, Chad (Fishadow) pulled in and joined us.
There were some big ground swells coming in followed by a long lull between the sets.  We time the lull perfectly and launch without a hitch at about 7:15 AM. Conditions were thick fog and very limited visibility.  It’s a good thing I have 5 inch color GPS plotter / FF combo that I always love to use.  I can see my exact location.

I had my yellow Revo 13 with me.  I just got it on May 18 it’s her 4th time out and still a virgin.
We all work our way North, conditions were still foggy with limited visibility.  At about 8:15 Kirk mentions that he would like get his gear ready and we all agreed to do the same.

We were just outside the kelp beds close to Pleasure Point in about 40 feet of water.  I look west and see a small private boat with 4 passengers about 200 feet away. I will forever be grateful to these 4 people, Kirk and Chad. 

I had 2 rods already to go, baited with squid and noticed I was getting close to the kelp.  I started slowly pedaling away.  At approximately 8:25 AM, I was about half way between my yak buddies and the private boat. 

It started with a loud thud and violent jolt on the rear starboard side. The back of my kayak rose a few feet then the attack soon happened.  I saw the shark's massive head come out of the water and bite the bow starboard underside.
His head was gray and white underneath his mouth. His mouth was already close when I saw him come out of the water with my kayak in his mouth.  I can still see vividly the seriousness on his eyes.
This all happened in about 2 seconds.  I would later find out that he came up from behind and showed his dorsal fin then charged for his attack.

The force of his attack threw me into the water and turned the Revo completely upside down.  I immediately started yelling, SHARK, SHARK! several times.  My first instinct was to get on top of the upside down kayak. I tried this once but I just slide off.  I see the private boat heading towards me and in a flash decided it’s my best chance of survival.  I did a slow breast stroke towards the boat and jumped abroad.  The only time I was really worried was when my feet were still in the water and Mr. Jaws would a take a parting bite.

I was never in a panic and always fully cognizant of what happening around me. 

The private boaters turned out to be Filipinos just like me.  I could hear Kirk ask them if they could tow my kayak back to the Capitola Pier and thankfully they agreed.  We were having some small talk and they told me they also have a Malibu tandem they use in the area.  Guess they won’t be using it soon.

We slowly motored towards the pier’s boat ramp and pull my kayak on top.  We exchanged phone numbers to keep in touch.  Big swells were rolling and I had to do a balancing act. At that time there were 2 guys on rental kayaks going out fishing. I told to be careful and still went on their way.

I opened the bow hatch was surprised to find about 6 inches of water inside. I was really surprised because it towed gracefully.  I brought out my bilge pump and pumped the water out.  Pretty soon Kirk, Chad and JTfishing join me on the dock. JTfishing saw us coming in and also had enough.  We bring our yaks on top of the pier and word spreads quickly about my incident.

News travels fast in this town, Sean Van Sommeran shows up with his camera.  Bystanders were asking me repetitive questions. 
As Kirk and I were loading to go home a Capitola community police officer comes towards us with his flashing lights on and starts taking a report, taking pictures and interviewing Chad and Kirk. I asked him how did he found out and tells me a passerby told him.  Then his sergeant show up asking me if I wanted to talk to the local news.  I said no thanks.

We were loaded up and driving home and I get a call from the officer asking me to come over to the police station.  Soon I was instructed to leave my kayak with them for scientific analysis and there it still sits. Upon closer examination the police chief himself finds a small piece of a GWS tooth!  I was assured that one of the officers will deliver my yak to my home.

Lost gear: 1 rod and reel and one scotty rod holder. 
Bite size: 1 3/4 inches between teeth marks, 18 inches diameter.

Safety lesson learned today:  Never go out alone.  Stay close to your fellow yakkers. Make sure your PFD is strapped right, safety whistle, throw rope, bilge pump, as many pool noodles inside your yak, cheap pipe insulation will make your rod and reel float.
God watching over me.  I honestly was never afraid through it all. I knew deep inside me everything would be alright :smt001

Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 07, 2012, 07:09:11 PM
It's what NCKA brothers do!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOLLOW UP:

Our dream of giant sea bass didn't come true but it was shown again, today, what a unique and great group of people make up the NCKA.  As per Mel's post the three of us were headed out setting a brisk pace towards the reported fishing grounds. Being the most familiar with the area I lead the way to the right, down the kelp lanes or skirting  just to the kelp's outside edge when it looked too heavy for Mel's pedal drive. In an hour I'm confident we traveled at least a mile and a half and where probably close to a half mile off  Pleasure Point. The fog made determining exact location difficult. We had just started fishing when I turned my head in time to catch the last of Mel's rollover.

When something like this happens so many thoughts go through your head in a very short amount of time.  My first though was how the heck did he manage to tip over in such nice conditions. It didn't matter why because I was already digging my paddle in to turn towards Mel. I started to think PB wake. In hindsight I think I was the sharks wake that gave me that impression. I started to think shark when this big arcing spray of water came up behind Mel's kayak. From my angle the peak of the water was pretty much centered on the middle of the yak rising up 2 -3 feet above the overturned yak tapering down and reaching almost to the ends of the yak. IMO the shark estimates of 13-15 feet are accurate.  The 18" bite marks were measured up one side of the bow and down the other, so the actual bite diameter may be a bit smaller.  Also in hindsight I realize that when I saw the yak rolling over, his bow was rotated at least 90 degrees counter clockwise from his direction of travel a few moments before. Rotated no doubt by the shark.
 Once I realize it was a shark and heard Mel shout, Shark , Kirk, Shark, Shark. I was putting the paddle down as hard as I could.  I turned to see if I had Chad's backup. He was already digging in. Our eyes locked for another fraction of a second and I think we each knew we were going straight in, as a team. It would have taken us 30 - 60 seconds to reach Mel, which is a long time during these conditions.  Fortunately the nearby  PBer didn't hesitate either and was able to quickly tail walk his boat over to Mel.  I imagine the boats incoming motor noise eliminated any chance of the shark's return. With Mel onboard I was able to retrieve his floating rod and corral his kayak. I didn't think I could safely right the kayak from a seated position so Chad stabilized the yak while I prepped a bow line.  We towed the yak to the PB. They righted the boat and then they attached another line to mine and towed the boat in. Chad and I tried to hold onto the Revo for  the return but after a short period it became too difficult and we finished on our own. For a while, we were escorted in by several large dolphins.
Sometimes on this site we bash Pbers, but their wonderful response proves there are good people everywhere.
I have to commend Chad. He didn't hesitate and got things done when they needed doing. He was a bit amped afterward as he put the word out over the radio , but that is to be expected under those conditions.  For shark rescue assists Chad is now the NCKA's most experienced member. He goes by FiShadow for the good times he's had fishing with uncle Adam. With today's assist and his current position on the AOTY leader board, showing he is a kayak fisherman to be taken seriously, I think it's time for a name change!  I like Rescue 2 for his two shark rescue assists. What do you say Chad?  Time for a name change?
I think Mel is handling it really well. He doesn't want publicity and wants to keep this low key, His biggest worry going home was what he would tell his wife. He kept asking me. I told him that when he was telling his concerned friends about the encounter, he would say a shark bit him. Saying it several times before he clarified by saying a shark bit his yak. I said,  "you don't start out by telling your wife  - a shark bit me."  :smt005
 Mel, I hope Donna understands, and we'll tell her if she doesn't, that the next time and the times after that, your NCKA brothers will bring you back home, safe.

After our return the circus began. We made it through the curious tourists and we were about to load up the car when the PD arrived and wanted to take statements and pictures.. We finished when the officer's Sergent came and wanted a report.  We finally got away, but before we could get out of town the PD called Mel and they wanted us to bring the yak to the police station.  At the police station they politely confiscated his yak for scientific purposes. They took the yak inside where we had to give another report. There they also spotted the embedded tooth.  We exited, but right before we could drive away they asked us to stay so a Sheriff's Deputy could take another report. Mel gave his report again. The Deputy then questioned me. He was just finishing up and he may have had a question or two more when I looked up to see a channel 8 news van driving towards the PD. I said, we're outa here. The Deputy saw the news van and said, OK.  For confirmation, he stated, you don't want to talk to the media? Mel said, No!!! - and we split before the news crew realized the story was right in front of  them.
 Everyone!  Let's do what we can to keep the Media off of Mel and his family. Many of us have known Mel  for a while and have personal info that the Media doesn't need. This is a public forum. Online or off let's be careful.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: baitNbeer on July 07, 2012, 07:14:25 PM
glad your ok and that you had some really good company! thanks for sharing .
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Sin Coast on July 07, 2012, 07:18:10 PM
Thanks you so much for sharing your story, Mel. That's really scary stuff and I'm glad you're ok man.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Sailfish on July 07, 2012, 07:18:55 PM
Thanks for sharing your experience Mel.  Glad you're not hurt.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: e2g on July 07, 2012, 07:20:25 PM
way to keep your cool.  Sends chills down the spine seeing another yellow yak with black markings getting hit.
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Jeffo on July 07, 2012, 07:25:08 PM
Right on Mel, thanks for getting right back to us. I'm happy everything worked out good!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Jedmo on July 07, 2012, 07:37:10 PM
Good thing people were nearby to give you a hand Mel. Thanks for sharing your mishap with all of us. One more thing, imagine how much more water you would have taken in if you had the T13 with it's thin plastic instead of the Revo.

Jedmo
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Tote on July 07, 2012, 07:37:33 PM
You should change your handle to 'The Iceman'. Way to keep your cool during and after.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Great Bass 2 on July 07, 2012, 07:38:35 PM
God bless you Mel. Saved by a boat of Pinoy. Doesn't get better than that.  :smt003 Tim and I fished that area 2 days ago and it was creepy. Loaded with otters, seals and small dolphins. My head was on a swivel.  :smt011
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Hat Trick on July 07, 2012, 07:44:13 PM
thanks for your informative narrative mel.
and glad you are ok
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: ravensblack on July 07, 2012, 07:44:50 PM
Thanks Mel. So happy that you are OK. That's gotta be the weirdest feeling in the world. I'm glad you kept your wits and didn't succumb to the GD media. Chuck, you gotta get this man a new boat. I would definitely want that tooth back Mel.
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: A-yaker on July 07, 2012, 07:49:44 PM
Yes, thank the Angels watching over you. Close call, I'm glad your okay Mel
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Great Bass 2 on July 07, 2012, 07:50:38 PM
BTW, breast stroke or side stroke is the stroke of choice in that situation vs the crawl or back stroke which causes more splashing.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Taurus987 on July 07, 2012, 07:52:18 PM
Kuya Mel thanks for sharing your story.  Glad your OK

Bob
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 07, 2012, 08:00:23 PM
Got my supposedly waterproof camera wet while swimming last weekend so all the pics I have to contribute are this quick cellphone picture of the Capitola  PD politely confiscating Mel's kayak. Will post up my details soon.
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Papa Al on July 07, 2012, 08:00:30 PM
Glad your ok. Thanks for sharing your amazing story.





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Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: DC on July 07, 2012, 08:01:45 PM
Thanks so much for sharing the details Mel.  Way to keep your cool throughout brother :smt006.   
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Rick on July 07, 2012, 08:17:13 PM
Thanks for the intell and the great story and pics. Glad that you sustained no physical harm.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: BigJim on July 07, 2012, 08:18:01 PM
Very glad you all are OK...let us know if there is anything we can do to help.

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Mienboy on July 07, 2012, 08:25:52 PM
gald your ok
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: ReelKnots on July 07, 2012, 08:30:16 PM
Thank you for sharing your story Paring Mel. I am glad you're okay.



Kiel
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: jmairey on July 07, 2012, 08:33:06 PM
awesome. great post. glad you are okay.

I was surfing pleasure point this morning while you were getting bit,  :smt006.

I think ken was catching wsb #2 of 2 attempts,  :smt001

the revo has fins on bottom? or it's a paddle yak?

who am I? yeah, I started that big long shark thread.. yep, I bet bill this would happen some day, before the first one happened. unfortunately dan's incident meant that bill and I ate sushi and he paid. not that I'm happy about it, but reality is reality. each year the number of sharks increases. so do the number of yakkers. it's not like detecting the higgs bosun or something.

John
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: snapperhead on July 07, 2012, 08:36:48 PM
Thank you for sharing your story Mel. Makes me want to go back to an aluminum boat. Did you have a choice if they took posession of your yak?? Hopefully they allow you to keep the tooth.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: MANBEARPIG on July 07, 2012, 08:50:34 PM
Thank god you are ok, Chad called me when you guys got in, and while I could believe it, I sure didn't want it to be true.  You were with a top notch crew and it sounded like they did the right thing, just as i would suspect them to.  Go bug hob ie for a new revo, you are a brave man!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: scubaluis on July 07, 2012, 09:07:35 PM
Glad you are OK, thanks for sharing, I will not hit the water alone in the ocean and will wear my PDF.
Scubaluis
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LoletaEric on July 07, 2012, 09:13:00 PM
Thanks for sharing your story, Mel.  I'm glad you're OK and that you kept your head throughout the event.   :smt001

If they don't deliver your boat to your house and give you that shark's tooth and anything else they find it'll be just plain wrong.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Anacapabob on July 07, 2012, 09:16:38 PM
Glad you are good.  Be well and dang that must have been unnerving!! 
This may be too soon but since you are so open about your encounter,
will you fish the same area.  Ever?
Take care.
ACB
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: & on July 07, 2012, 09:19:03 PM
Dude, glad u r alright and good looking out on the team work.

But wassup with confiscating the boat?  I dont see this being a police matter.  They shd be out busting meth heads, not looking for shark teeth
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: DrDave on July 07, 2012, 09:20:01 PM
So glad you are alright! WTG keeping calm! :smt001
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Fish N' Chips on July 07, 2012, 09:26:24 PM
What a story.  The best part is you are ok.  Too bad about your boat.    It is a small comfort but nice that none of the recent attacks have caused any injuries.  With the increase in sharks and kayakers this seems to becoming more common.  I may be looking into a shark shield soon!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LapuLapu on July 07, 2012, 09:26:52 PM
Mel, you are one brave Pinoy!  Thanks for sharing your story with us.  It sure gave me the creeps.  Glad to hear you were not physically hurt and that again it was the kayak that the shark mistakenly bit.  I can't believe those 2 guys renting a kayak still went out there after you told them about the shark attack.

Rey
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: KayakJames on July 07, 2012, 09:34:28 PM
Glad your ok Mel, helluva story. Your welcome to my Revo anytime till you get yours sorted out.


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Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Danglin on July 07, 2012, 09:35:16 PM
Plus one on the new handle of

  Iceman....  :smt004

  Too Kool....  Ditto everything being said and that your OK and well handled by everyone....

except maybe the PoPo...  taking your yak??? 

 Going to dust for prints...? put out a APB???  always a sexy story and good for you on handling everything like a Pro...

Hobie is starting to fill all their walls with chewed up Yaks....  Hope they get ya new one....
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Yosemite Rob on July 07, 2012, 09:41:20 PM
Wow, thanks for telling it like it happened Mel, I can't imagine staying in the water and staying that cool, shark had to be close by, glad you are ok.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Salty. on July 07, 2012, 09:42:49 PM
Mel, I'm very happy you were not hurt in the attack today. That's what's important. Jim
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: mooch on July 07, 2012, 09:43:04 PM
Quote
imagine how much more water you would have taken in if you had the T13 with it's thin plastic instead of the Revo.

I'm biting my lips  :smt011
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: & on July 07, 2012, 09:47:47 PM
http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/place/article/Shark-attacks-kayak-near-Santa-Cruz-3690673.php (http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/place/article/Shark-attacks-kayak-near-Santa-Cruz-3690673.php)

Its hit the press.  Seriously wtf w the sheriffs/pd involvement?  Are they handing it over to the da's to consider prosecuting a battery, assault charge agains the shark? 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: newfish on July 07, 2012, 10:10:14 PM
I'm glad you are ok. That's quite a story.  The photos show you are the "Iceman".
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: daviator on July 07, 2012, 10:23:14 PM
Mel thanks for sharing the story...

Yeah I like the bang stick idea...still unsure of the effectiveness of the shark shield.. Need to do more homework on the item..

PoPo...can they actually seize property like that?
Wtf?
I am all for cooperating with the authorities but going w/o my yak is depriving food from my table. 
But I am sure you got bigger things to contemplate.

Bless you and those like you,
Dave
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: SharkResearch on July 07, 2012, 10:32:25 PM
I would like to speak with you about your encounter. Would you please email me at; sharkresearch@aol.com  so that I might be able to discuss with you specific aspects of your incident. I'm thankful you were not injured. Photographs and incision measurements of the tooth impressions left in your kayak would allow me to determine the size of the white shark involved in your attack.  Thank you for your assistance. Ralph S. Collier, Shark Research Committee.com
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Archie Marx on July 07, 2012, 10:35:06 PM
Linda and I just saw this on the news.  We are glad you are OK.

Big props for staying cool and to those who helped you out.

I fished Pleasure Point solo last week.  I think that is the last time I go out alone south of SF.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Spike on July 07, 2012, 10:43:22 PM
Man `O Man!!!
I can't express my gratitude, and the magnitude of importance, that you are sharing this experience so openly.  You have shivered my timbers and I'm excited to meet and fish with you and your buddies Mel.

G-d and Mother Nature continue to look out for us kayak fishers.  Seems like the landlord has taken a liking to keying our rides though.

When I started kayak fishing seriously back in the 80's, I did a lot of shark research and there was little factual data.  The one recurring "fact" I got was that they like the color yellow.  Today, it seems like every expert knows shark psychology, inner thoughts and their motivations, by what I see on TV anyway.  These things are dinosours man!

We are celebrating your fishing party's good fortune.  Have a helluva weekend!


Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: solsrf1 on July 07, 2012, 10:50:16 PM
Inspiring; poise and grace under extreme circumstances. Glad you are ok, we can all learn something from your experience. Cheers
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: EWB on July 07, 2012, 11:15:34 PM
Glad you are ok Mel. Just saw you (actually just your boat) on the local news. And said.....yep I know him.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: krusty on July 07, 2012, 11:38:48 PM
Just saw your kayak with its NCKA sticker on KTVU news.

http://www.ktvu.com/videos/news/santa-cruz-large-shark-tries-to-bite-mans-kayak/vcgpC/ (http://www.ktvu.com/videos/news/santa-cruz-large-shark-tries-to-bite-mans-kayak/vcgpC/)

Good to hear you are ok.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: surfingdude on July 08, 2012, 04:10:18 AM
And today when the shock is going away  you should realize that you are now a "BAD ASS" by any standards....great job keeping your wits about you and coming out on top of a bad situation.....
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Kayote on July 08, 2012, 05:45:17 AM
Wow, intense encounter. Glad you are safe. Seems NCKA has been averaging one incident per year.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Tote on July 08, 2012, 06:05:59 AM
Just saw your kayak with its NCKA sticker on KTVU news.

http://www.ktvu.com/videos/news/santa-cruz-large-shark-tries-to-bite-mans-kayak/vcgpC/ (http://www.ktvu.com/videos/news/santa-cruz-large-shark-tries-to-bite-mans-kayak/vcgpC/)

The shark expert said you were just starting to "PADDLE" your kayak...........
Is that true or were you pedaling?
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: iroelikethat on July 08, 2012, 06:46:40 AM
What a hair razing tale.   Glad you are okay Mel. 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: BANJOTAD on July 08, 2012, 06:59:48 AM
That's some scary sh!t!
Glad to hear Mel is well!
Tad
 :smt006
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: DC on July 08, 2012, 07:03:52 AM
http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/place/article/Shark-attacks-kayak-near-Santa-Cruz-3690673.php (http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/place/article/Shark-attacks-kayak-near-Santa-Cruz-3690673.php)

Its hit the press.  Seriously wtf w the sheriffs/pd involvement?  Are they handing it over to the da's to consider prosecuting a battery, assault charge agains the shark?

This would be considered a "public safety" issue and where that occurred is Sheriff's Office jurisdiction.  Go easy on "the man" on this one, they're just trying to help.  I question the taking of the yak though and can only guess it was voluntarily surrendered. 
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Mr.Matt on July 08, 2012, 07:41:14 AM
And today when the shock is going away  you should realize that you are now a "BAD ASS" by any standards....great job keeping your wits about you and coming out on top of a bad situation.....
+1. Total badass status achieved!
Glad u are alright.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: beenfishin on July 08, 2012, 07:43:16 AM
Damn! Glad to hear your okay. Anytime you want to hit up some trout let me know!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: obkook on July 08, 2012, 07:43:47 AM
Mel, glad you are OK and +1 on comments regarding your poise.

Sent from my SGH-I777 using Tapatalk 2
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: nudling on July 08, 2012, 08:51:25 AM
So glad to hear that you're okay.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: CappyMoMo. on July 08, 2012, 08:56:24 AM
Thanks for sharing this experience with us.  I'm glad the crew on the boat was able to help so quickly.  Thanks goodness you are ok. 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Bird on July 08, 2012, 09:26:36 AM
Thanks for sharing your story Mel.  Glad to hear you are well and nice job keeping your cool.  Wishing you the best.   :smt006

Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: ChuckE on July 08, 2012, 09:44:38 AM
Thanks for sharing your story Mel.  Glad to hear you are well and nice job keeping your cool.  Wishing you the best.   :smt006
Ditto.  I just hope you're not too overwhelmed by all of the attention.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Goz on July 08, 2012, 09:56:29 AM
Thanks for sharing Mel, and glad you're OK. I went to the wharf at 10 to see if anyone had caught WSB, and Mel, Kirk and Chad were loading up. There was some commotion going on and  Mel said 'I got hit by a GW. WHAT!!! I'm impressed by how calm you were, grace under fire. Glad Kirk, Chad and the PB were there to help. Way to go guys. 
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: dpshim on July 08, 2012, 10:03:07 AM
Mel, we're all thankful that you're ok brother! Thanks for sharing your experience, as we learned a great valuable lesson on the importance of being cool under the most extreme situation.

As I said before, I'm more than willing to be your wingman anytime Mel :)

Again, thank God that you're doing well :)
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: ex-kayaker on July 08, 2012, 10:22:00 AM
Thanks for sharing your story Mel.  Glad to hear you weren't hurt and made it back. 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: RHYAK on July 08, 2012, 10:46:06 AM
Thanks for sharing your story. Important to do after such an event.

Ryan
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Chadrock on July 08, 2012, 10:46:26 AM
So glad that you are alright Bro!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: PingKod on July 08, 2012, 10:48:04 AM
Amazing story and experience. Reread it several times. Thank you for sharing and glad you're ok.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Usagi on July 08, 2012, 10:50:47 AM
Glad you made it out okay Mel, and major props to the NCKA brothers and PB'ers who helped out. I saw a blurb about this on the late news and when they said "He was fishing" I immediately thought "I bet it was a NCKA'er...".
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Usagi on July 08, 2012, 10:54:18 AM
Plus one on the new handle of

  Iceman....  :smt004

 

Hobie is starting to fill all their walls with chewed up Yaks....  Hope they get ya new one....

+1

Hope the Popo give you that tooth back also. It would be a great fishing charm!  :smt002
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: OlySpec on July 08, 2012, 12:20:25 PM
Thanks for sharing your story bro!!!  Scary...
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Fuzzy Tom on July 08, 2012, 12:41:36 PM
I was at Capitola this morning, but playing my uke, which is another thing to be afraid of there, but there were sure a lot of kayaks out beyond the kelp, though I gather that's at least a mile from where the taxman was yesterday.   
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FISHADOW on July 08, 2012, 02:14:57 PM
Glad Mel mad it out of the drink ok. He handled it extremely cool. Im very proud of the way he kept his Sh!t together for all of us  :smt008

I saw the whole thing happen from about 150 ft away. One second he's checking his line then a big violent burst of water and loud thud. As i see him leaning to his port side, before he hit the water I already knew what was happening. The sound was incredible like a car hitting a kayak. all time froze and slow-mo. seemed to kick in.

 Just about the time he was ejected, the bow was pushed up and left very hard as the yak flipped over it all happend in a second or two but felt like an eternity. I saw mel holding one side of his yak, as the words that ill never forget chilled the air  "shark, help, shark, help"  I saw that HUGE and I mean F*cking HUGE tail flailing quickly above the surface as the shark made his descent. By that time me and Kirk were pushing towards him(which you can never do fast enough). It feels like a ton of bricks is on your yak

Thank god for those PBers. Never happier to see one. After i made it to mel to make sure he was all in one piece we gave a little manshake (real mans handshake). Then Me and Kirk began to pick up the pieces. I put a call out on the radio. Alshobie responded and headed in. It was crazy how many people were still out but hey to each their own.

It was a cool headed crew out there, and im glad that I was with them. Being around experienced Vets like you guys makes dealing with all this craziness a little easier. I had a funny feeling when I left the house that morning like it could have been the last time. Guess I should learn to listen but all those pounds of fillets blinded me  :smt005

Mel You F'd up our WSB dreams with your nightmare :smt009.  :smt008 And im glad that we are all hear to talk about it :smt002. Through no choice of our own we are now linked in special club that i hope no one ever has to join.

Cant stress the fact that you need to hit the salt with friends or be prepared to deal with type of stuff alone. because it does and will happen again.

Thank you for surviving Mel.....from all of us

Tried to hit the salt the next day but mother nature didn't want us out there this weekend i guess.

Thoughts and best wishes go out to Mel and his Family.

P.S. I believe he lost one of his favorite rod and reel setups. It would be really Cool if we can get some donations together to help Mel get a new setup A.K.A. (love rod) :smt007



Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: e2g on July 08, 2012, 02:50:03 PM
I would like to speak with you about your encounter. Would you please email me at; sharkresearch@aol.com  so that I might be able to discuss with you specific aspects of your incident. I'm thankful you were not injured. Photographs and incision measurements of the tooth impressions left in your kayak would allow me to determine the size of the white shark involved in your attack.  Thank you for your assistance. Ralph S. Collier, Shark Research Committee.com

Mr Collier was the most helpful guy when we tried to figure out what kind of shark was following shark_bait.  He is  a stand up guy that I vouch for 100%, if you are looking for some answers, this is your guy.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FISHALLDAY on July 08, 2012, 02:58:29 PM
Mel,

I'm glad you made it out in one piece :smt044. It would freaking suck to lose a NCKA brother.

Also, I want to thank all of you guys for warning everyone out there. Had I not known about the attack, I probably would've headed towards the kelp to fish later on in the day.

John
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FISHADOW on July 08, 2012, 03:02:49 PM
Check out mellow Mel and the mauled Revo.

also the unsung heros in all of this
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Clayman on July 08, 2012, 03:32:10 PM
Scary stuff Mel.  Glad that you came out of it okay!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 08, 2012, 03:44:01 PM
Quote
By that time me and Kirk were pushing towards him(which you can never do fast enough). It feels like a ton of bricks is on your yak

I know exactly what you mean 1000%. You gotta get there, and it fells like you're pulling the entire Pacific Ocean instead of just a paddle full of water.
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Mr.Matt on July 08, 2012, 04:10:12 PM
U
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 08, 2012, 04:25:38 PM
Everyone!  Let's do what we can to keep the Media off of Mel and his family. Many of us have known Mel  for a while and have personal info that the Media doesn't need. This is a public forum. Online or off let's be careful.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 08, 2012, 06:35:43 PM
Yes indeed, the Media pulled a quote from Mel's NCKA report with his name attached to it. The Reports are to share with our Brothers - On The Water - to improve their safety. Let's not stray from that
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: mooch on July 08, 2012, 08:16:05 PM
 
Quote
One more thing, imagine how much more water you would have taken in if you had the T13 with it's thin plastic instead of the Revo.

Jedmo



As far the comment about the "thin plastic of the Trident 13" Well, I was there the day Dan's red Hobie was hit and it had hole(s) in it and it was full of water when he hit the shore. So please don't get the false impression that Hobies are better kayaks for shark attacks. :smt009
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: barndoor on July 08, 2012, 09:10:28 PM
Wow. I've never personally met anyone on here but now I Really hope to go out with you guys. No more solo trips!  Glad you're ok mel and that the landlord didn't collect.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: StephKillsit on July 08, 2012, 09:10:56 PM
Oh man I saw this on the news a couple hours ago. Glad ur ok! I was planning a trip to Capitola but being new to Yak Fishing, I'm def going to go with folks..thats crazy. I love Capitola too. Can't believe it happend in 40 ft of water. But yea glad your ok!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: mooch on July 08, 2012, 09:27:42 PM
The attack on Harry last year at Pigeon Point was in 20 FOW. Sharks at the Farallon Islands have been known to chase seal very close to shore.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: troutnut on July 09, 2012, 02:42:56 AM
I just saw it on CNN
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: DrHabanero on July 09, 2012, 08:26:29 AM
Damn I was so close to being out there with you guys. Just running a little late on Saturday not getting down till 7:30 and decided too foggy for me to go alone so went to the beach and played with the family. Guess I realize now why no one called to hit this on Sunday.  :smt005 Glad everyone is ok.
Later
Jimbo
Title: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Uminchu Naoaki on July 09, 2012, 09:33:09 AM
So glad that everyone came out okay, but sorry about your new revo...
I absolutely love your attitude, Chad!!!

Naoaki


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Flyaker on July 09, 2012, 11:59:50 AM
wow!  Mel, thanks for sharing your harrowing experience.   And thanks for the NCKA brothers and PBers who were there to help.    It is a terrible thing to happen, but there is no better crew to have around when this kind of thing happens, as it inevitably will. 

Leaves much to ponder.    Last attacks were San Mateo coast, and there was a sense attacks were mainly in the fall.   Looks like landlord is expanding his territory and hunting out of season.   A friend told me a GWS was seen cruising 50 yards off La Jolla beach last week.    Seems they are getting much more active.   the only consistent thread seems to be a preference for hobies, which is a bummer, since i just got a yellow hobie. 
Disturbing.    I guess there isnt much one can do to narrow risk factors other than to never kayak alone, and always stay pretty close.   

Glad and thankful everyone was OK. 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: CGN-38 on July 09, 2012, 12:47:00 PM
 :smt006

  There went my hopes of launching out of SC!  My wife saw our local news about the attack, and told me about it (I hadn't seen the report yet) she told me "To not be in such a hurry to fish out there NOW! I didn't mention to her that this was the 3rd or 4th attack this year out there. (Didn't need to throw any more gas on that fire)

  I'm really glad no injuries (Other than maybe some shorts) happened.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: flipback23 on July 09, 2012, 12:48:05 PM
Glad your are ok Mel, even though I have not fished with anyone off the site yet, but it sounds like everyone here watches each others back while out together and I cant wait to fish with you all. Being new to kayaking, this makes me freaked out about taking my first trip out to the big blue one day. But I do know one thing I will not make that trip alone. Again glad nothing bad happened to you other than a damaged yak could have been much worse.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: bigwavedave on July 09, 2012, 02:12:07 PM
Scary stuff them damn sharks, and I always considered Santa Cruz one of the safer spots to fish. Glad this story had a happy ending.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Mienboy on July 09, 2012, 09:04:06 PM
Quote
One more thing, imagine how much more water you would have taken in if you had the T13 with it's thin plastic instead of the Revo.

Jedmo



As far the comment about the "thin plastic of the Trident 13" Well, I was there the day Dan's red Hobie was hit and it had hole(s) in it and it was full of water when he hit the shore. So please don't get the false impression that Hobies are better kayaks for shark attacks. :smt009
im sure if the walls of a yak is thick enough to withstand a gws bite you wouldnt want to lift or paddle/peddle it.i seen a gws pop the floats on a huge zodiac on sharkweek.if it wants it bad enough its gonna take it
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: outback on July 09, 2012, 11:51:30 PM
Everyone!  Let's do what we can to keep the Media off of Mel and his family. Many of us have known Mel  for a while and have personal info that the Media doesn't need. This is a public forum. Online or off let's be careful.

Agreed.  A well known Bay Area news reporter called our Fremont shop and asked us if we could help him get him in touch with Mel.  We told him that we could not help him with that request.  We then notified Mel of the inquiry.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: ravensblack on July 10, 2012, 03:58:50 AM
Quote
One more thing, imagine how much more water you would have taken in if you had the T13 with it's thin plastic instead of the Revo.

Jedmo



As far the comment about the "thin plastic of the Trident 13" Well, I was there the day Dan's red Hobie was hit and it had hole(s) in it and it was full of water when he hit the shore. So please don't get the false impression that Hobies are better kayaks for shark attacks. :smt009


Actually it looked like Adams OK fared better than the others I saw in pictures. Maybe the flex is a good thing. Where the rigidity fractures instead of bending. The yellow theory is bunk.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: kayakjack on July 10, 2012, 05:26:34 AM
Why not talk to the press? Are we sposed to be keeping this on the down low?
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: StephKillsit on July 10, 2012, 06:42:42 AM
Question. I bought a hunter green Hobie Outback and I heard that dark green is a color that Sharks can mistaken for seals, is this true? I really wanna get out to Capitola, Santa Cruz Area but not sure if color is a determining factor or maybe if that GWS was just protecting its territory?
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Jedmo on July 10, 2012, 07:24:14 AM
I have both the T13 and the Revo of which I love equally. Both have pros and cons that is why I bought them both. I just noticed that each modification I made, I find that the T13 was much thinner when my drill bits would make a hole. Perhaps it is the Manufactures design for the flexibility. That is all I am saying and not that the Hobies are better kayaks in terms for shark attacks. If I have offended you Joel and Craig for my comments, I'm sorry.

Jedmo
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FISHADOW on July 10, 2012, 08:40:20 AM
Question. I bought a hunter green Hobie Outback and I heard that dark green is a color that Sharks can mistaken for seals, is this true? I really wanna get out to Capitola, Santa Cruz Area but not sure if color is a determining factor or maybe if that GWS was just protecting its territory?

Don't worry about the color or type of your Kayak. Get out and go fishing. I also have a green kayak. Been there for two attacks. I don't think the color helped. I Think that they will hit what ever the hell they want to hit. So be it yellow, green, red, blue. It doesn't really matter. When it comes time to collect rent the landlord is like the honey badger.(just dont give a sh!t)   :smt009 Stay close to your group
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FisHunter on July 10, 2012, 09:01:26 AM
Why not talk to the press? Are we sposed to be keeping this on the down low?
when they followed me home from work that following monday, i was suprized and gave them what they wanted. The camera guy was a surfer (so i felt they were worthy) but if they had followed me on tues. they would have gotten NOTHING at all. I was becoming angry at the regular world and did not want to see people enjoying my near death experience, smilling, laughing after the televised report. If it were a Fishing, Kayaking or Surf related news cast, i would have shared it all with them, but not the common news....."that stupid guy should have known better!" is not what i needed or wanted to hear.
That is just how i felt and still do.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: FisHunter on July 10, 2012, 09:06:14 AM
or maybe if that GWS was just protecting its territory?
this is what i think they are doing.....hey, this is my place to feed, not yours!, take that!  :smt009
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Sin Coast on July 10, 2012, 09:49:04 AM
GWS don't see "color" as much as they see contrast. Their vision is the weakest of their 5 senses. I doubt color makes a huge difference to them--they can't even see the difference between a yellow kayak and a brown seal...so...why even bother freaking out about it. I will continue to paddle kayaks that are brightly colored (like my red T140) because it is easier to see. I'm never buying a blue kayak again. Heck, even those camo colored yaks are hard to see OTW. Throw in some fog...and you better have a bright pfd, flag, or something.

Crap I posted in the wrong thread about color, my bad.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: LilRiverMan on July 10, 2012, 10:01:57 AM
Quote
Why not talk to the press? Are we sposed to be keeping this on the down low?

Cause the man is our friend! Providing info that will have the press at his doorstep will make it hard for his family to lead a normal life, It will worry them needlessly, and potentially lower his WAF etc to zero for the next decade
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: nudling on July 10, 2012, 10:06:48 AM
Quote
Why not talk to the press? Are we sposed to be keeping this on the down low?

Cause the man is our friend! Providing info that will have the press at his doorstep will make it hard for his family to lead a normal life, It will worry them needlessly, and potentially lower his WAF etc to zero for the next decade

Nice, PC way of putting it.  :smt038
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Rock Hopper on July 10, 2012, 11:22:50 AM
or maybe if that GWS was just protecting its territory?
this is what i think they are doing.....hey, this is my place to feed, not yours!, take that!  :smt009

I wasn't witness to any of the attacks, but by the way you described yours, Adam, I feel that it was a territorial thing as well. I've heard all but Mel's attacks from the victims and your shark definitely seemed more "pissed off" than the others.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: PISCEAN on July 10, 2012, 11:52:10 AM
or maybe if that GWS was just protecting its territory?
this is what i think they are doing.....hey, this is my place to feed, not yours!, take that!  :smt009

I wasn't witness to any of the attacks, but by the way you described yours, Adam, I feel that it was a territorial thing as well. I've heard all but Mel's attacks from the victims and your shark definitely seemed more "pissed off" than the others.

I think, like other animals (think a big dog) that are not normally subject to fear, sharks can get startled by a different experience (like biting a plastic boat and then not know what it is other than it isn't a seal) and get scared that they they might be harmed. So they split. Unless, like some animals, the startled reaction is "WTF, I'M the badass here", then you get the pissed off bus with a grill of sharpness.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: steveislost on July 10, 2012, 12:21:58 PM
Be nice to hear some opinions from the diving guys as their perspective is probably closer to what a fishy sees under water versus kayakers who spend their time above water.  On some casual swimming under a hobie kayak, I can see why the paddles flopping around under there looks very animalistic.  Same with the shape and color of a kayak.  Filtering through water makes a big difference especially when murky, depth, or the skies brightness, etc.  I would think a big kayak outline from underneath might resemble another shark just as much as a seal or sea lion. 

Be cool to see what a guy looking up from 30-50ft depth at a kayak.  Perhaps a go-pro moment.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: Roughster on July 10, 2012, 12:37:35 PM
Holy crap man, I am glad you ok.  It is crazy to think about how often sharks probably come up and look and we never know it.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: mdoka_matt on July 10, 2012, 01:34:57 PM
Holy crap man, I am glad you ok.  It is crazy to think about how often sharks probably come up and look and we never know it.

Agreed.  Some things Id rather not know.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12
Post by: rockfish on July 11, 2012, 12:31:58 AM
Thank you for sharing, you're a tough cookie going through it all in such a calm manner!!

I's so glad you're OK and not injured!
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: FishingAddict on July 13, 2012, 01:45:01 PM
Updated with approximate size on first page.
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: NoSoupForU on July 13, 2012, 03:17:50 PM
Hey Mel I'm glad you guys are all okay.  I don't know if I could have reacted so collected and calm.  I saw a GWS under my Whaler last year while salmon fishing out of Bodega.  The first thought that came to my mind then was "damn that thing is as big as my boat".  I can't even imagine what going fin to fin with a GWS from a kayak would be like and hope nobody else ever gets the chance to find out. 
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: FISHADOW on July 13, 2012, 09:52:23 PM
So Mel how do you know the fin surfaced first? The PB Group?
That's a big ol' shark man. Im eternally grateful for your survival and calm and graceful demeanor through it all.

Your a good man
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: bink on July 13, 2012, 09:55:31 PM
Hi Mel,

I just heard about your encounter today!  Holy cow!  I'm glad you are okay.  You kept your head a lot better than I would have.  Kudos to the NCKA crew as well.  You guys demonstrate just what is so great about the NCKA brotherhood.  However, I am a bit spooked as the last two attacks have involved a few of my regular kayak fishing partners.  I'm just glad that everyone made it out in one piece and seem to be in good spirits despite the encounter.

Michael
Title: Re: My GWS Encounter @ Capitola 7/7/12 - updated 7/13
Post by: FishingAddict on July 14, 2012, 12:41:55 AM
So Mel how do you know the fin surfaced first? The PB Group?
That's a big ol' shark man. Im eternally grateful for your survival and calm and graceful demeanor through it all.

Your a good man

Yes one of them told me that on our way to the pier.  When my kayak was in tow towards the pier, I saw a another dorsal fin come up about 70 feet in front of us.  You guys probably did not see it because you were behind us.
That's when one of the PBers told me its a dolphin. He saw the attack from a different angle and could distinguish different dorsal fins. We eventual see numerous dolphins on our way to the pier.