Matthew Bender, an experienced surfer, is recovering after being bitten by a shark while riding waves at New Smyrna Beach, Florida — a location notorious for frequent shark encounters.

Bender described the experience as terrifying but said he feels extremely lucky:

“It’s a miracle I still have my hand,” he told local news station Fox 35.

Despite the severity of the bite, doctors say he’s expected to regain full use of his hand after treatment.

New Smyrna Beach has long been considered one of the world’s shark bite capitals, due to the large number of minor shark encounters reported every year.

Fisherman Bitten While Releasing Shark

In a separate incident, a 21-year-old fisherman in Nantucket, Massachusetts was bitten on the leg by a common sandbar shark after attempting to drag it back into the ocean following a catch.

According to the Nantucket Current, the man reeled the shark onto the shore but was bitten during the release. Friends immediately rushed him to a nearby hospital, and he was later flown to a mainland medical facility for further treatment. His identity has not been released.

Rising Caution Amid Shark Activity

Both incidents are part of a growing number of shark encounters being reported along the U.S. coastline this summer. While shark attacks remain relatively rare, experts urge swimmers and anglers to exercise caution—especially in areas known for shark activity.

Swimmers are advised to avoid going too far from shore, stay in groups, and refrain from entering the water during dawn or dusk when sharks are most active.

As the summer season continues, beachgoers are reminded that while the ocean offers fun and adventure, it also demands respect for the wildlife that calls it home.

Stay with CDR Africa for more updates on this developing story and other international news.