The Sharkbanz deterrent field is approx. 1-2 meters (about 3-6 ft). The unpleasant sensation becomes very intense for a shark at about 1 meter (3 feet), and the field strength increases exponentially each cm/inch closer to the source due to the laws of magnetism.

The electromagnetic field is increased by your movement, but purposeful movement is not necessary. The simple rhythmic current of the ocean moving you around is enough. Sharkbanz does not need to be submerged in water to deter sharks.

Yes - Sharkbanz are the result of over a decade’s worth of peer-reviewed scientific research on the use of magnetic technology as an active and effective shark deterrent. The science and technology behind Sharkbanz was founded through rigorous studies conducted by marine biologists around the world. Since 2014 and the creation of the product, additional field research has been conducted successfully using Sharkbanz on Bull Sharks - with the results quantified and verified by an independent third-party analysis group at the prestigious School of Coastal Environment Department of Marine Science at Coastal Carolina University.

This compilation of research evidences that permanent magnets project detectable magnetic fields underwater that produce sufficient magnetic fields to elicit avoidance in a range of species including: Hammerhead (S. Mokarran and S. Lewini), Bull (C. Leucas), White Sharks (C. Carcharias), Australian blacktip (Carcharhinus Tilstoni), Lemon (Negaprion Brevirostris), Grey Reef (C. Amblyrhynchos), Milk (Rhizoprionodon Acutus), Speartooth (Glyphis Glyphis).

The current model, Sharkbanz 2, is an evolution of the original Sharkbanz, providing greater deterrent power, durability, and comfort. Dozens of unsolicited user testimonials outline the product's effectiveness at deterring a variety of predatory shark species, including Great White, Bull Shark, and Tiger Shark. However, it's important to note that Sharkbanz are a safety device, much like bike lights, and there is no guarantee of no shark interactions. Sharkbanz reduce the risk - they do not eliminate the risk altogether.

For more detailed information on the science and research behind Sharkbanz's patented shark deterrent technology, a copy of 'Sharkbanz Research Claims Document’ [PDF] is available here:

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/182...

Additional information and research analysis can be found under the Research section of Sharkbanz.com:

https://www.sharkbanz.com/pages/research

Sharkbanz are designed for one size fits all, and a universal fit for ages 5+. After sizing to your preferred ankle, any excess band slack can simply be cut with a regular pair of scissors.

Sharkbanz 2 units will comfortably and securely fit ankles up to 13" inches in circumference. The best way to find out for sure is to measure the circumference of the wrist or ankle with a tape measure. If it’s between 5.5 and 14 inches (14 and 35.5 cm) then you're all set!

Our current wearable Sharkbanz model, Sharkbanz 2, is an evolution of the original Sharkbanz, providing greater deterrent power, durability, and comfort. In December 2016, we launched Sharkbanz 2 - featuring improved functionality, design, materials, and construction process. Today our Sharkbanz 2 product is worn by thousands of beachgoers, divers, ocean athletes, and marine professionals around the world.

Dozens of unsolicited user testimonials outline the product's effectiveness at deterring a variety of predatory shark species, including Great White, Bull Shark, and Tiger Shark.

Absolutely.

Worn on your wrist or ankle, one Sharkbanz unit will help reduce the risk of an unwanted shark encounter, as the deterrent field of a single Sharkbanz unit is approx. 1-2 meters (about 3-6 ft).

However, wearing two Sharkbanz (one on your ankle; another on your opposite wrist) will increase the overall deterrent field size and thus provide greater coverage – similar to how other safety devices work. If only wearing one, we suggest wearing Sharkbanz on your ankle, as the majority of shark bites occur on the ankle and leg areas. 

We stand behind the quality and workmanship of our products, which you'll experience as soon as you put on your 'Sharkbanz 2'. The ‘Sharkbanz 2’ product is warrantied against defects resulting from faulty workmanship or materials for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase. Note that the ocean is a highly corrosive environment where pressure and salt can cause damage over time. We recommend you replace your 'Sharkbanz 2' product every four (4) years to ensure top-level quality, comfort, and performance.

Please note that Sharkbanz products should not be exposed to heat over 160°F (70°C), nor at any point should the core chassis be physically damaged or altered. If this occurs, the deterrent technology's effectiveness could be reduced and/or negatively impacted. 

If you ever encounter any potential issues or concerns about your Sharkbanz, you can always write us at: support@sharkbanz.com and we will help.

Much like other safety devices, such as a bike lights, Sharkbanz reduce the risk - they do not eliminate the risk altogether. This principle applies to all common predatory sharks, Great Whites included. Customers in Australia, South Africa, California, Cape Cod, Rhode Island, and Oregon have used our products to deter investigative Great Whites. You can read these unsolicited accounts on our Reviews page. 

Great Whites rely heavily on their electroreception when swimming in open water, and Sharkbanz could effectively deter an investigating Great White. However, it's important to note that Great Whites are unique in that they are the only shark that acts as an ambush predator, attacking from a long distance at high speed. There is no effective way to prevent this type of ambush attack when it occurs.

From a testing standpoint, Sharkbanz are the result of over a decade’s worth of peer-reviewed scientific research on the use of magnetic technology as an active and effective shark deterrent. This compilation of research evidences that permanent magnets project detectable magnetic fields underwater that produce sufficient magnetic fields to elicit avoidance in a range of species including: White Sharks (C. Carcharias). 

Two of our Great White deterrent customer encounters include:

Michael Skogg, Seaside, OR:

"I had a Great White encounter while paddle surfing the cove [...]. After a cleanup set, I was swimming back to my board when a dorsal fin broke between my board and me. It was a big, dark fin and coming at me hard. It got within five or six feet and thrashed really hard - then suddenly the shark made a violent hard left and bolted out of the area. I wore a Sharkbanz on my right wrist and left ankle. Thank God."

Scott Fegette, Carpinteria, CA:

"I got my Sharkbanz 2-3 years ago when Great White sightings picked up off my local break near Santa Barbara. On July 4, I was swimming next to my SUP when a 8-10 ft White did a pass on the other side of my board. I was trying to get back on my board and out of the water when it circled back on my side. Just as I thought it was gonna either bump me off or take a chomp (maybe neither but I was pretty shook), I reflexively kicked out my foot with my Sharkbanz on, and the White did a quick 90 degree turn and swam away fast like in your videos! I was stoked as hell but got ashore fast. Needless to say, I always wear it now."

The patented shark deterrent technology behind Sharkbanz
products has been extensively researched and tested on a wide variety of shark species, including juvenile Tiger Sharks (up to 9 ft). Positive deterrent
results were exhibited by juvenile Tiger Sharks during testing. Adult Tiger Sharks simply were not present during these tests. Tiger sharks use electroreception heavily like other predatory species, thus Sharkbanz has the
same deterrent effect on them to reduce the risk.

Additionally, Sharkbanz has
received several unsolicited testimonials from customers deterring Tiger Sharks
in Hawaii, Australia, and Florida.

The following is via Sue A. on 6/15/2020:

 "A group of friends
and myself were doing our usual water jogging in Kailua bay. I spotted what appeared to be a log in the water about 10 to 12 ft from us. As it got closer, I could see clearly that it was a Tiger Shark. The shark must have sensed the magnet, shuddered, and abruptly turned, and swam away from us. There were other
sightings and bump encounters for a few weeks before our encounter. Happy to discover my Sharkbanz working! I am a believer!"

Another from James C. on 10/02/2022: 

“I've had my Sharkbanz 2
for 5 years and use it multiple times per week. I love it and think it already saved my legs and maybe my life once. I was kiting and was in the water when a Tiger Shark came at me, but then turned at the last moment and just hit me with its tail”

And finally from Nicky C. on 6/21/2017, which is featured on our Reviews page:

Thank you, Sharkbanz! The Tiger Shark veered away, and I swam safely to shore! While swimming at Stuart Beach (FL), I was quite far out wearing my fins and enjoying body surfing waves off the sand bar. At first, I didn't hear the lifeguard's whistle to clear all the swimmers from the water. So when I did look to shore, the beach goers were lined up along the shoreline and the lifeguard was waving his hands to come in. I was the only one still in the ocean. The water was crystal clear that day, and they could all watch the Tiger Shark (4-5 feet long) swimming back and forth parallel to the shore, but closer in than I was. As I'm swimming to shore, the shark turns towards me and follows me, getting closer and closer. When he was within about 6 feet of me, the lifeguard noticed he veered away [which he later told me]. While the shark stayed in the beach area, it never came near me again. THE SHARKBANZ WORKED WELL!"

No. 

Sharkbanz emit a magnetic field that quickly drops off, so sharks cannot sense it from far away. Once sharks enter this magnetic field range, they can be deterred, as Sharkbanz has shown to over-stimulate their electroreception.

Based on the laws of magnetics, the magnetic field created by Sharkbanz drops off at the inverse cube of the distance from the source - this means at a distance of 10 feet and beyond the field is not detectable by even the most sensitive laboratory equipment. 

Sharks will not be attracted into the magnetic field.

Sharkbanz deterrent technology also has the ability to deter stingrays, which helps beachgoers, wade fishermen, surfers, and divers reduce the risk of a painful incident. 

Our technology will not repel all marine life or other sea creatures like turtles, dolphins, etc. The reason Sharkbanz can repel sharks as well as other elasmobranch species such as stingrays is the presence of electroreceptors in these species, which detect the magnetic field produced by our technology. 

You will still be able to see and encounter non-shark species while wearing Sharkbanz in order to reduce the risk and enjoy greater peace of mind. If you fish and use our Zeppelin product to protect your catch, this device will not deter any target fish species. 

Don't worry, your Sharkbanz is not "leaking" or defective. Quite the opposite. 

Sharkbanz' powerful magnetic technology will attract tiny ferritic (iron) particles commonly found in the ocean. You may observe these minute particles sticking to your Sharkbanz after an ocean swim (oftentimes appearing like a dark soft substance). Do not be concerned! Your Sharkbanz is not leaking, nor is its effectiveness reduced.

If you have metal or medical devices under the skin, always consult with your doctor before purchasing and using Sharkbanz.

Due to the use of powerful magnetic technology, Sharkbanz can disrupt sensitive electronic equipment such as memory cards, hard drives, etc. if placed within close proximity (less than 24" inches), so it's important to consult with your doctor and medical device manufacturer.

Benthic-based sharks such as wobbegongs (family Orectolobidae) and port Jackson sharks (Heterodontus portusjacksoni) are not deterred by Sharkbanz or electrical shark deterrents, even if placed directly on the animal. Benthic sharks have evolved differently than other predatory shark species like bull sharks and do not respond in the same way to these fields.

Benthic species are a minor threat to divers/swimmers, although the wobbegong has been shown to ambush attack swimmers/surfers/divers when unprovoked. Most wobbegong incidents have taken place in NSW, Australia. All cases of wobbegong attacks have resulted in minor injuries with no fatalities.

Special care should be taken with Sharkbanz and dive computers with compasses. The two can be used together successfully by ensuring the Sharkbanz is at least 24 inches (60 cm) away from the dive computer. By wearing Sharkbanz on the opposite ankle from the wrist with the dive computer, you can ensure it remains at least 24 inches (60 cm) away.

Placing your Sharkbanz within 24 inches (60 cm) of the compass will cause the compass to display an inaccurate reading. Dive computers without a compass feature will likely not experience mechanical problems within close proximity of Sharkbanz.

Avoid direct contact with any sensitive electronics (camera memory cards, hard drives, etc.) and Sharkbanz, especially for prolonged periods of time.

Sharkbanz and Sharkbanz 2 do not have any electrical or pressurized components, and Sharkbanz 2 are waterproof tested up to 100M (300 ft), but they are an effective deterrent at any depth.

No - Sharkbanz do not use batteries and thus do not require charging. They are powered by the magnetic field of the earth and are always "on".

As long as your Sharkbanz is not exposed to heat over 140°F (60°C) and the chassis is not physically damaged, then the magnetic technology will not lose its effectiveness. The longevity of the band varies depending on the frequency of use and amount of user abuse. Think of it as a more durable high-quality sport or ocean watch; you're more likely to lose it than for it to break.

Sharkbanz are travel and airline-friendly. The TSA will not give you trouble over your Sharkbanz but may be curious about it as a carry-on item. Our team and customers alike have traveled to different countries and throughout the United States with them as checked and carry-on luggage and never had any issues thus far.

For anyone planning to travel with their Sharkbanz, please remember that Sharkbanz should be kept in their protective magnetically shielded box in order to protect sensitive electronic devices that may also be in your bag(s). The magnetic shielding in the Sharkbanz case will protect electronic devices in your luggage, but please always do your best to separate the Sharkbanz box from important electronics and/or memory cards.

If you are concerned about a specific device, please email connect@sharkbanz.com and we will answer your question.

Source: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatca...

Sharkbanz has been officially approved for use in major competitive swim races such as Rottnest Channel Swim and Port to Pub (Australia). Our technology is not known to interfere with timing chips nor has any issue ever been reported by customers globally.

If you have outstanding concerns on this question, please contact your race organizers and ask if their timing chips are affected by magnets.

The majority of all shark attacks (bites) are classified as "hit-and-run" incidences, where a curious shark takes one bite and leaves. Most shark bites in these occurrences take place on a victim's legs, which is why if you're only wearing 1 Sharkbanz to wear the device on your preferred ankle.

For additional shark deterrent coverage, especially if you're surfing in known shark hot spots, we recommend wearing two (2) Sharkbanz units - one on your ankle and the other on your opposite wrist. The deterrent field for Sharkbanz is approximately 3-6 ft (1-2 m). The unpleasant deterrent sensation becomes intense for the shark at about 3 ft (1 m) and becomes exponentially greater each inch/cm closer to the Sharkbanz.

Depending on your height and movement in the water and on your board, wearing 1 Sharkbanz unit on your ankle could provide deterrent coverage to your forearms and wrists, but simply put, your safer wearing one on your wrist as well. In addition to reducing the risk, you'll also enjoy greater peace of mind and be able to freely focus on surfing.

The Sharkbanz 2 product is a personal deterrent device. The deterrent field is approximately 3-6 ft (1-2 m). The unpleasant deterrent sensation becomes intense for the shark at about 3 ft (1 m) and becomes exponentially greater each inch/cm closer to the Sharkbanz.

People seeking to be within range of the Sharkbanz' deterrent field should wear their own personal Sharkbanz, either 1 on their preferred ankle, or 2 units - one on their wrist and the other on their opposite ankle.

The deterrent field is approximately 3-6 ft (1-2 meters). The unpleasant sensation becomes intense for the shark at about 3 feet (1 meter), becoming exponentially greater each inch closer due to the laws of magnetic induction.

It's very important your Sharkbanz Fishing device (Zeppelin) is rigged properly so your catch is within the appropriate position and proximity to the device.

Visit our Zeppelin Rigging page for the best methods/practices for maximizing effectiveness while minimizing device loss potential. Instructions are easy to follow and the device is simple to use. This is essential reading.

https://www.sharkbanz.com/pages/rigging-fishing-zeppelin

**The key to success is the placement of the device in relation to your catch.**

In order to achieve best results, attach the Zeppelin so the device will sit 18-36" inches (3 ft) from the tail of the target fish species. Note: NOT 18-36" inches from your bait/hook but the distance from the approximate tail location of your catch. Then position the Zeppelin so it will hang 3 ft. (36" inches) below the end of your catch.

Additional: If you are using sinkers in conjunction with your Zeppelin, do not use steel sinkers. Use only lead or zinc sinkers when using the Zeppelin.

If you're using long leaders, you can create a breakaway knot, so when you fish is hooked, the breakaway is triggered by the pull on the line, sending the Zeppelin down to your catch.

Using patented magnetic technology researched and tested by marine biologists on predatory shark species, Sharkbanz Fishing tackle overwhelms a shark’s electroreception, creating a highly unpleasant sensation that can stop the ocean’s Taxman in his tracks – protecting your catch, gear, and good time on the water. Sharkbanz Fishing tackle does not harm sharks or repel other fish.

No! Sharkbanz Fishing only deter shark species because other fish (target) species do not have a sensory organ (ampullae of Lorenzini) that can detect electric fields. Sharks use this 6th sense (electroreception) in order to hunt and navigate the oceans.

Our Sharkbanz Fishing products utilize compact, weight conscious, and minimal design in order to be mindful of line-shy fish, such as Snapper and Grouper.

The Zeppelin is a proven shark deterrent technology based on years of research and product testing by marine biologists, fishermen, and the Sharkbanz team. Similar to other tackle gear, there are no outcome guarantees, but when used correctly, the Zeppelin is proven to reduce the occurrence of shark depredation (aka "getting sharked") and help enable fishermen to land more fish. Sharkbanz Fishing products can provide fisherman more time to land their catch and reduce catch & gear loss - offering new opportunities to bottom fish in areas previously unimaginable due to aggressive and conditioned sharks.

It’s important that you still diligently land your fish. Don’t simply let it hang out in a sharky area. Letting your catch soak may result in loss of gear and target fish. Keep it moving and land your fish! Longer fight times may allow shark habituation to occur. If positive results diminish, relocation may be necessary.

If you experience an unexpected result with your Zeppelin, please let us know. Our team is here to help ensure you have success with the protect and land more fish. Please email connect@sharkbanz.com with details of your purchase, rigging method, and outcome.

While Sharkbanz products are proven to reduce the rate of shark depredation, the Zeppelin does not eliminate depredation completely. How you rig the device is critical to its success.

We have designed our rigging methods in collaboration with professional captains to minimize the risk of losing your Zeppelin. While anglers should be prepared for the possibility of losing the device (just like any other terminal tackle), they will minimize the risk of loss and increase the rate of success by following our best practices.

As our testing videos evidence, the use of one (1) Zeppelin can deter sharks (even multiple sharks), when rigged correctly.

However, depending on your line weight, bottom fishing method, and target fish species, if you are able to attach two (2) or more Zeppelins to your line, so you have one unit placed 6-10" inches (15-25 cm) above your catch, and a second unit also placed 18-24" inches (45-60 cm) below the tail of your catch, then you will increase the effectiveness and deterrent field. However, if you are using multiple Zeppelins, you do not want them to stick to one another. This will cause tangling and diminished product effectiveness.

The use of multiple Zeppelins has been proven effective in a Hawaiin commercial bottom fishing study with 10+ hook sets.

No - all Sharkbanz products are active shark deterrents, meaning they are "always on". This reliability is thanks to their patented magnetic technology.

The Zeppelin is designed to work in all depths.

As long as your Sharkbanz Fishing device is not exposed to heat over 140°F (60°C) and the chassis is not physically damaged, then the magnetic technology will not lose its effectiveness. If there is a problem with your Zeppelin, please let us know at: support@sharkbanz.com

Yes! We strategically used biodegradable PLA in the construction of our Sharkbanz Fishing products, and our products will not harm any ocean creatures.

The case your Zeppelin product arrives in from Sharkbanz.com is a magnetically shielded case for safe transport, shipping, and storage. When you're not using your Zeppelin, you should store it in its protective case.

This protective case is travel-safe and can be brought on airlines in carry-on or checked baggage.

Do not place your Zeppelin (out of its hard protective case) directly next to or within 30" inches (60 cm) within sensitive electronic devices or boat GPS / Compasses.

We recommend storing your Sharkbanz Fishing device in its protective (magnetically shielded) case when not in use. Be very mindful that your Zeppelin utilizes powerful magnetic technology and can attract other metal objects commonly found on boats such a hooks, knives, etc.

If you are using / handling multiple Sharkbanz Fishing products, be very mindful of their attraction to one another. We don't want you to pinch your finger. Be careful when letting small children play with the products. They’re fun to handle but caution should be exercised.

Sharkbanz Technology has elicited avoidance behavior in all of the following species: Bull, Sandbar, Lemon, Blacktip, Bronze Whaler, Grey Reef, Milk, Speartooh, Oceanic Whitetip, Hammerhead, Tiger, and Great White. The results from our Sharkbanz Technology study on Bull Sharks, proving its effectiveness, were quantified and verified by an independent third-party analysis group at the prestigious School of Coastal Environment Department of Marine Science at Coastal Carolina University.

*Note from our scientistic partners: Official research tests showed that large magnets deterred Nurse sharks (please see research page for more info), but Sharkbanz will not elicit much of a reaction. Nurse sharks are bottom feeders and use their electrical sense much less than most predatory species, instead relying on their keen senses of sight, smell and barbels. They will bite if severely provoked, but are otherwise docile. Do not attempt to “test” Sharkbanz when diving with nurse sharks, as you may provoke the animal.

To protect your fish, attach to your catch bag or rig to your gun to auto deploy after firing. To reduce the risk of unwanted shark encounters, clip to your weight belt in addition to wearing Sharkbanz on your ankle.

For a demonstration of the auto deploy technique, please watch this tutorial on our YouTube @Sharkbanz page.

In a year-long (ongoing) study from the Australian Government (DPIRD, 2021), Sharkbanz Fishing was proven effective at reducing shark depredation and enabling fishermen to land more fish. Full results, findings, and videos from this government testing is awaiting publication but the products have exhibited successful results, even in extremely rigorous (sharky) circumstances.

Additionally, our team is supporting ongoing research & testing efforts by Florida Atlantic University, MOTE Labratory, the Western Australian Government, and other commercial fishing industry and government affliates.

In conjunction with members of Recfishwest, Western Australia's largest recreational fishing organization, research and product testing was completed in December 2019, proving the effectiveness of Sharkbanz Fishing products when used in bottom fishing methods - helping fishermen land fish in areas too sharky and problematic. The results of this testing project are available here and conclude the devices exhibited an 84% reduction in hooked fish lost to sharks, compared to local daily depredation (sharked) averages.

Additionally, the products have been field tested and used effectively throughout Florida by some of Florida's most well-known captains including Capt. Billy Delph, Capt. Patrick Price, Capt. Jack Carlson, Capt. Greg Bogdan, Capt. Chris Mendola, and many others.

If you have metal or medical devices under the skin, always consult with your doctor before purchasing and using Sharkbanz devices, due to the powerful magnetic technology involved.

Special care should be taken with Sharkbanz Fishing tackle and sensitive boating equipment with compasses. If outside of its protective case, please ensure your Zeppelin is at least 24 inches (60 cm) distanced from your boat's GPS / compass equipment.

Placing your Zeppelin within 24 inches (60 cm) of the compass will cause the compass to display an inaccurate reading.

Avoid direct contact with any sensitive electronics (camera memory cards, hard drives, etc.) and Sharkbanz Technology, especially for prolonged periods of time.

No!

Sharkbanz emit a magnetic field that quickly drops off, so sharks cannot sense it from far away. Once sharks enter this magnetic field range, they can be deterred, as Sharkbanz has shown to over-stimulate their electroreception. For added peace of mind, please know that based on the laws of magnetics, this magnetic field created by Sharkbanz drops off at the inverse cube of the distance from the source, meaning at a distance of 10 feet and beyond, the field is not detectable by even the most sensitive laboratory equipment.

Online payment for your Sharkbanz is managed by our highly secure TRUSTe verified system with Shopify, and Sharkbanz packages are handled by the leading carriers, so you can trust in their reliable service.

TRUSTe has top notch security so rest assured your information is safe. If you can't bear to trust the internet, ask your favorite tackle shop if they will carry Sharkbanz Fishing products.

Returns on unused Sharkbanz products will be accepted for 30 days. The product box must be unopened, unused, and contain all packaging inserts. Packaging must be clean and undamaged. Take care in properly packing and shipping your return. The product will be inspected upon receipt and evaluated for refund.

Detailed instructions and important Return & Warranty Info can be found on our Sharkbanz Policies page.

We stand behind the quality and workmanship of our products, which you'll experience as you open and put on your 'Sharkbanz 2'. The ‘Sharkbanz 2’ product is warrantied against defects resulting from faulty workmanship or materials for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase. Note that the ocean is a highly corrosive environment where pressure and salt can cause damage over time. We recommend you replace your 'Sharkbanz 2' product every four (4) years to ensure top-level quality, comfort, and performance.

Please note that Sharkbanz products should not be exposed to heat over 160°F (70°C), nor at any point should the core chassis be physically damaged or altered. If this occurs, the deterrent technology's effectiveness could be reduced and/or negatively impacted. 

The Zeppelin is protected from any defects resulting from faulty workmanship or materials for a period of 1 Year from the date of purchase.

If you ever encounter any potential issues or concerns about your Sharkbanz, you can always write us at: support@sharkbanz.com and we will help.