Leopard shark found in Isthmus Slough by father, son

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By Nicole Plascencia

Story Published: Sep 16, 2008 at 9:55 PM PST

COOS BAY, Ore. - If you're thinking about going for a dip in the Isthmus Slough, well you might run into something unfamiliar to the area.

A 44-inch Leopard Shark was picked up Monday by a man fishing on the Slough.

Shawn Kellum and his dad own property on Olive Barber in Coos Bay and their home sits right on the Slough.

Kellum said he first caught a Leopard Shark two months ago but it bit through the line and he thinks this shark is the same one.

He says he's never seen a shark there before.

Steve Rumrill, Research Coordinator for South Slough, said Leopard Sharks are pretty rare in Coos Bay but no need to worry because they are harmless to humans.

Kellum and his dad were hoping to donate the shark to the Newport Aquarium but it died over night.

And now they will have it for dinner.

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