Shark Men Season 2 Episode 3 Surfing with Sharks
- TV-PG
- April 17, 2011
In season 2 episode 3 of Shark Men, titled "Surfing with Sharks," the team heads to the infamous Mavericks surf spot in Northern California to study and tag white sharks. The Mavericks break is known for its 60-foot waves and the presence of these apex predators.
The team, composed of Chris Fischer, Brett McBride, and Dr. Michael Domeier, teams up with pro-surfer Shane Dorian to get an up-close and personal look at the sharks in their natural habitat. Dorian, a seasoned veteran of the surf scene, has had numerous encounters with white sharks and offers valuable insight to the team.
The first day of the trip proves to be fruitless, with no white shark sightings. However, the team is able to tag a nearby blue shark, giving them valuable data on this species. The team is undeterred and returns to the water the next day with high hopes.
Their patience pays off when they spot a 15-foot white shark near their boat. McBride and Domeier quickly hop in the water with a specially designed tagging pole and attempt to tag the shark. The team faces numerous obstacles, including rough waters and the shark's unpredictability. However, their persistence pays off, and they are able to successfully tag the shark and gather important data on its movements and behavior.
The team also explores the use of a new tagging technology, called SPOT (Smart Position or Temperature) tags, which allow for the precise tracking of shark movements. These tags give researchers a more detailed understanding of the shark's behavior, such as where it goes, how deep it dives, and its preferred water temperature.
In addition to their research, the team also encounters some danger when a rogue wave almost capsizes their boat. They manage to recover and continue their work, but the experience serves as a reminder of the risks involved in studying these apex predators.
Overall, "Surfing with Sharks" is a thrilling and educational episode that showcases the team's dedication to studying these fascinating creatures. Through their efforts, they are able to gain valuable insight into white shark behavior and contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect and conserve these important apex predators.