Magnetic shark deterrents work by disrupting a shark’s electroreceptors, which are highly sensitive to electromagnetic fields. These deterrents create a mild but unpleasant sensation for sharks, encouraging them to turn away.
1. Best Magnetic Shark Deterrents
Sharkbanz 2 (Wearable Wrist/Ankle Band)
• Technology: Uses strong, permanent magnets to create a protective field.
• Best For: Swimmers, snorkelers, surfers, freedivers.
• Pros: Compact, no batteries or charging needed, durable.
• Cons: Less effective against large or highly motivated sharks; works best at close range (~1-2 meters).
Sharkbanz Zeppelin (Fishing Gear Protection)
• Technology: Magnet-based device attached to fishing lines to reduce shark depredation (stealing fish from lines).
• Best For: Anglers, spearfishers.
• Pros: Helps prevent losing catch to sharks, easy to use.
• Cons: Doesn’t protect humans directly.
Magnetic Shark Barriers (MSBs) – Permanent Installations
• Technology: Magnetic fields placed in water (e.g., along beaches or docks) to repel sharks without harming marine life.
• Best For: Beach protection, coastal areas with high shark activity.
• Pros: Environmentally friendly, non-lethal, effective at keeping sharks away from designated areas.
• Cons: Expensive and location-specific.
2. Effectiveness of Magnetic Shark Deterrents
• Best for smaller, curious sharks (e.g., reef sharks, blacktip sharks).
• Less effective against larger, predatory species (e.g., great whites, tiger sharks).
• Works only at very close range (~1-2 meters from the device).
• Scientific studies show moderate success, but electronic deterrents (like Shark Shield) are generally more effective for personal safety.