Shark Data Lab logoShark Data Lab
ENFR

Shark Attacks in 1986

In 1986, the Global Shark Attack File logged 39 shark attacks worldwide — 42.9% above the historical annual average. 3 were fatal (7.7%). United States accounted for the most incidents that year, with 15.

Total recorded

39

Fatal

3

Fatality rate

7.7%

Global avg 21.2%

vs. annual avg

43% above

Hist. avg 27.3/yr

Countries with the most incidents in 1986

CountryRecorded incidents
United States15
South Africa13
Australia5
Spain2
Bahamas1

Species most often involved in 1986

SpeciesRecorded incidents
White Shark5
Spotted Wobbegong2
Blacktip Shark2
Lemon Shark1
Bull Shark1

Counts based on the species field in the Global Shark Attack File. Species identification in incident reports is not always reliable.

Notable incidents in 1986

1985All years →1987

Frequently Asked Questions

How many shark attacks were there in 1986?
The Global Shark Attack File records 39 shark attacks worldwide in 1986, with 3 fatalities.
What was the shark attack fatality rate in 1986?
7.7% of shark attacks recorded in 1986 were fatal.
Which countries had the most shark attacks in 1986?
The countries with the most recorded incidents in 1986 were United States (15), South Africa (13), Australia (5).
Which shark species were most often involved in 1986 attacks?
Based on incident records, the most frequently identified species in 1986 were White Shark, Spotted Wobbegong, Blacktip Shark.