The Gulf Great White Shark Society is asking for help from the public, offshore workers, anglers, divers, and mariners to document great white shark sightings in the Gulf—past or present.
For decades, reports of great white sharks in the Gulf were often dismissed due to a lack of physical proof. Today, satellite-tagging data and improved documentation are showing that these sharks have likely used Gulf waters far longer than once believed. To better understand that history, firsthand observations matter—especially those from before modern tracking technology existed.
We are seeking credible sightings from any era, including but not limited to:
Encounters while diving offshore or near deepwater structure
Sightings from oil and gas platforms or support vessels
Accidental captures or releases by commercial or recreational fishermen
Observations from boats transiting offshore waters
Historical accounts from crew members, captains, or platform workers
Photographs, video, logbook notes, or written records
Even sightings that occurred decades ago can be valuable. Patterns only emerge when many individual data points are brought together. A single observation may seem insignificant on its own, but when combined with others, it can help reveal migration routes, seasonal use of Gulf waters, and long-term trends.
The Gulf Great White Shark Society maintains an ongoing sightings and records database focused specifically on white sharks in the Gulf of Mexico. This database is used to compare historical reports with modern satellite-tagging data from research organizations and to identify areas that may be important but under-studied.
You do not need photographic proof to submit a report. Clear details—such as approximate date, location, water depth, behavior observed, and why you believe the shark was a great white—are often enough to evaluate credibility. All submissions are reviewed carefully and treated respectfully.
If you have ever seen, caught, filmed, or documented a great white shark in Gulf waters—or know someone who has—we want to hear from you.
Reports can be submitted via email at chester@chestermoore.com.
Additional background, research updates, and confirmed tracking information are also available at:
https://www.gulfgreatwhites.com