Has Panama City beach ever had a shark?

Yes, Panama City Beach has had several shark encounters and sightings over the years. While shark encounters are relatively rare in Panama City Beach, there have been several documented instances of sharks near the shore or even in shallow waters. Here are a few notable shark encounters that have occurred in the area:

2019: A 10-foot scalloped hammerhead shark was caught just a few hundred yards off the coast of Panama City Beach by a group of fishermen.

2018: A 6-foot bull shark was caught near Shell Island, which is located just off the coast of Panama City Beach.

2016: A large shark, believed to be a great white shark, was spotted swimming near the beach in Panama City Beach.

2015: A 6-foot bull shark was caught near the Hathaway Bridge, which is located near Panama City Beach.

2014: A 7-foot tiger shark was caught off the coast of Panama City Beach by a commercial fishing vessel.

These are just a few examples of shark encounters that have occurred in Panama City Beach. While these incidents are relatively rare, they serve as a reminder that sharks do inhabit the waters around the area and that it's important to take precautions when swimming in the ocean.