Angel Sharks do not look like Great White Sharks, but they are dangerous all the same. Of all the inshore species of shark in So Cal, the Pacific Angel Shark (Squatina californica) certainly has an attitude of a Great White. Just search google for angel shark attacks and you'll see. Although most attacks on humans seem to be defensive in nature, and not predatory, they are violent and destructive.
On one shore dive off of La Jolla, I almost landed on top of a six footer and precariously placed my hand next to its mouth when I came to rest on a 30 foot deep sandy bottom. The fish was so well camouflaged that I could not see it. A slight movement and quick glance probably saved my hand. Angel sharks have very sharp, neddle-like, conical teeth, with a gaping mouth that opens up to swallow fish whole; a split-second strike grabs unfortunate prey (fingers) like an overgrown snapping turtle.
An aggressive lunge, a sweep of its tail, and it was gone, heading out into the deep blue depths of the canyon. I was flabbergasted. I almost lost my hand. If it weren't for my dive buddy, I would have not seen it. Thank God for my dive buddy.
I've seen angel sharks cruising in shallow water, only a foot deep. They are flat like the Halibut, so they can sneak past the waves into tourist territory.
