Oahu Tow-surf Foiler's Hydrofoil Passes Over Hammerhead Shark

A tow-surf foiler captured a startling near-miss when his hydrofoil passed over a hammerhead shark while riding off Oahu. The clip, credited to Matthew Reynolds, shows the rider reacting with surprise as a hammerhead swims close beneath the board and foil; there is no contact between the animal and the equipment.

The rider says he was towing and foiling on a clear day and was lucky to have the camera rolling. The footage was recorded and posted on January 28, 2026, and has circulated among surf and marine communities. Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources records both scalloped and smooth hammerhead species off the islands, so this encounter is consistent with known local shark distribution rather than an isolated anomaly.

For tow-surf and foil riders, the immediate takeaways are practical. First, maintain a clear line of sight and an alert spotter on the tow boat to monitor the water ahead and below the foil. Second, avoid erratic splashing or sudden movements that can draw attention; smooth boat handling and clear communication between driver, spotter, and rider make a big difference in response time. Third, treat offshore waters as shared habitat - give marine life room and prioritize controlled exits if you see large animals nearby.

The clip is useful beyond the adrenaline factor because it shows a real-world encounter at foil height. Hydrofoils operate above the water in a way that changes how riders perceive and respond to objects below the surface. That flight path reduces reaction time for both rider and driver, so pre-ride briefings about lookout roles, recovery plans, and safe glide zones matter more than ever when towing and foiling together.

Community response has been a mix of amazement and sober reminders about safety protocol. The incident reinforces routine practices: use experienced drivers and spotters for tow sessions, mark hazardous zones on charts before launching, and err on the side of distance from marine life. For photographers and videographers, the clip is also a reminder to secure cameras and keep crew focused on safety rather than only getting the shot.

This close encounter should prompt riders and boat operators to refresh their procedures and remain respectful of Hawaiian waters where hammerheads are part of the offshore ecosystem. Expect conversations at the next session about lookout drills, tow speeds, and how to keep foil flights smooth while minimizing disturbance to wildlife.