Florida led the nation in shark bites in 2025, new report shows. Here’s why researchers say it tops the list

Florida once again leads the nation in shark bites, according to newly released data that comes just as beach season ramps up. According to researchers with the Florida Museum of Natural History's International Shark Attack File, there were 65 unprovoked shark bites worldwide last year, slightly below the 10-year average of 72. Eleven of those bites happened in Florida — more than any other state, though the number is down from recent years.