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A paddler was knocked into the Swan River after a shark bit their craft near Blackwall Reach on 22 February 2025. They were not injured. PerthNow described the craft as a kayak, while the official SharkSmart alert called it a surf ski; the available accounts do not explain the difference.
What happened at Blackwall Reach?
PerthNow reported that the incident happened at about 8:51 am in the Blackwall Reach area of the Swan River. Its account says a bull shark bit a kayak and knocked the paddler off. The report also said the East Fremantle Yacht Club cancelled all sailing and that DPIRD officers and staff from other agencies were monitoring the situation. PerthNow’s report
The official SharkSmart warning gives two times: the interaction occurred at 8:15 am, and a member of the public reported it at approximately 8:51 am. The alert describes the craft as a “surf ski” and says a reported bull shark bit it, knocking the paddler off. It states: “The paddler did not receive any injuries.” SharkSmart WA’s 22 February 2025 alert
Was the shark identification confirmed?
The official warning used the wording “reported bull shark.” That documents the reported interaction and identification, but the available accounts do not establish a separately verified species identification. The craft descriptions also differ: PerthNow says kayak; SharkSmart says surf ski. Neither source explains the discrepancy, so it should not be treated as settled.
#1 Best Overall
- YOUTH-SPECIFIC DESIGN: Specially crafted kayak with paddle for young paddlers features a stable hull and multiple footrest positions to accommodate growing children up to 130 lbs.
- SHARK-THEMED APPEARANCE: Fun shark-styled design with molded-in fins, gills, and durable stickers for teeth and eyes that make kayaking more exciting for kids
- SAFETY FEATURES: Built-in swim-up deck with hand holds for easy re-entry, self-bailing scupper holes to keep deck dry, stable hull design provides great stability and tracking
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from high-density polyethylene with UV protection for weather resistance, measuring 72 inches long by 24 inches wide
- CONVENIENT TRANSPORT: Lightweight with front T-handle and center carry handle, plus includes paddle with molded-in paddle cradle storage
What did authorities advise?
In its 22 February 2025 alert, SharkSmart advised people to take additional caution in Blackwall Reach, obey any closures advised by local government rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA, and check SharkSmart information. It asked people to report sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600. DPIRD officers and staff from other agencies were monitoring the situation. These were the directions in that dated alert, not confirmation of an active warning today. SharkSmart WA’s 22 February 2025 alert
Is there a current warning?
The incident sources do not establish the live warning or closure status on 4 October 2026. A later SharkSmart warning, dated 24 February 2026, reported multiple bull shark detections over the previous three days at monitoring receivers in East Fremantle and Blackwall Reach and recommended additional caution in the lower Swan River. That dated update is historical context, not a statement of conditions now. SharkSmart WA’s 24 February 2026 warning
Rank #2
- YOUTH-SPECIFIC DESIGN: Specially crafted kayak with paddle for young paddlers features a stable hull and multiple footrest positions to accommodate growing children up to 130 lbs.
- SHARK-THEMED APPEARANCE: Fun shark-styled design with molded-in fins, gills, and durable stickers for teeth and eyes that make kayaking more exciting for kids
- SAFETY FEATURES: Built-in swim-up deck with hand holds for easy re-entry, self-bailing scupper holes to keep deck dry, stable hull design provides great stability and tracking
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from high-density polyethylene with UV protection for weather resistance, measuring 72 inches long by 24 inches wide
- CONVENIENT TRANSPORT: Lightweight with front T-handle and center carry handle, plus includes paddle with molded-in paddle cradle storage
For current conditions, check the official SharkSmart WA information before entering the water, and follow any local closure notices.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Package】1 pair of shark mouth and 2 pair of shark eyes in the package.
- 【Material Durability】 This reflective shark teeth decal size L x W:14.8 x 5.0 inches,thick graphics, the vinyl material is highly durable, waterproof, and UV-protected, ensuring resistance against harsh weather conditions and sunlight exposure without fading or paint damage.
- 【Ease of Application】 The decals are easy to apply by peeling off the backing and firmly rubbing them down onto the surface. A heat gun can aid in conforming the material to complex curves, though it may not adhere well to textured or uneven surfaces. Removal is clean without leaving residue or surface damage.
- 【Appearance】Awesome, adorable, and cool. The quality graphics that can range from goofy to stern, enhancing the overall appeal of the sticker.【Recommended Uses】 The decals are recommended for use on various vehicles such as canoes, kayaks, boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles, and others, indicating versatility in application.
- 【Installation Method】The installation process involves cleaning and drying the surface, positioning the decal, scraping out bubbles, and ensuring a flat surface. It's advised to keep the installation area dry and avoid direct sunlight or water exposure for 48 hours post-installation to ensure proper adhesion.
Rank #4
- EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go
- READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
- STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- 2-PERSON CAPACITY – The Explorer K2 is a two person capacity kayak with a 400 pound maximum weight capacity. When fully inflated the kayak measures at 10.3 feet X 3 feet X 1.8 feet
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, heavy-duty grab handles with grab lines, two quick-fill Bonston valves, high-output pump and one repair patch
Rank #3
- SUPER-STRONG – SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior strength and durability, ensuring high impact and abrasion resistance
- LOW PROFILE DESIGN – The Challenger K1 has a streamlined low-profile design that is perfect for easy paddling in lakes and mild rivers
- COCKPIT SEATS – Built with removable and adjustable seats, the cockpit design is spacious and comfortable, providing plenty of room for your legs and gear
- REMOVABLE SKEG – Attached to the underside of the kayak, the removable skeg provides directional stability, making it easier to maintain a straight and steady course while paddling
- 1-PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated size is 9 feet x 2.6 feet x 1.1 feet with a weight capacity of 220 pounds and easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
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