In a chilling turn of events, New Zealand fisherman Matt Wells found himself the target of a curious great white shark during a recent kayak fishing expedition near Cape Regina on the northern tip of the country’s North Island. Wells, who is experienced in kayak fishing, was engaged in a routine search for yellowtail kingfish when the shark appeared and initiated an eight-minute chase.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, Wells emerged unscathed and soon reflected on the experience during an interview with Today. “I got over it pretty quickly,” Wells said. “It’s in the past now, and we’re back out there fishing.”
Wells described the events leading up to the dramatic encounter: “I was fishing along the coast, just trolling with live bait out behind the kayak. The area is known for holding large fish, and I’ve had success there in the past. It was a quiet day until I noticed a swirl behind the kayak. At first, I thought it was a kingfish feeding, but then the swirl grew larger, and suddenly, a great white shark emerged from the depths, swimming straight toward me.
Although Wells remained calm while recounting the incident, he admitted the experience was anything but serene in real time. “I was in shock,” he said. “A lot of emotions hit at once—fear, awe, and excitement. I’d never seen anything like that before.”
Reflecting on the potential danger, Wells shared that the thought of death did cross his mind but believed the shark was more curious than predatory. “It crossed my mind, but honestly, I don’t think it was hunting me. They can attack, but I believe it was just a curious animal having a bit of fun and giving me a scare.”
After the terrifying chase, Wells managed to escape without injury, and the encounter quickly became a story to tell.
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