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The sharks’ pilgrimage centers around a peculiar natural phenomenon. Each summer, massive schools of small baitfish called herring aggregate around the pier. By mid-June, these schools begin dying off in what researchers suspect may be oxygen depletion caused by their own density

The research began when Fogg’s team noticed an uptick in large tiger sharks around the pier in 2021. What started as curiosity about why they are here has evolved into a comprehensive study involving LSU, Mississippi State University and the United States Geological Survey.

Last week marked another successful chapter in their ongoing research, with 12 more tiger sharks tagged during two intense days on the water. The effort brings their total to just under 40 animals since the project began in 2022

For the past four years, Okaloosa’s Natural Resources Chief Alex Fogg and his team have been there waiting for them, ready with heavy tackle, steel leaders and satellite tags to unlock the mysteries of why this impressive apex predator seeks out the Pier.

The tiger sharks arrive like clockwork every June, drawn to the Okaloosa Island Pier by an unusual event that happens in the Gulf near Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. 👇

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DESTIN FISHING: Okaloosa County approved the deployment of eight shallow water fish aggregating devices (FADs) off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The new FADs will be positioned approximately 25 nautical miles from Destin Pass in water depths ranging from 206 to 297 feet.

CHICK-FIL-A BY BOAT: At Crab Island or Norriego Point in Destin and want your Chick-fil-A fix? You got it! This footage was filmed by Sara Franklin O’Connor during a vacation with her husband on O’Steen Beach.

SS UNITED STATES: Okaloosa County has signed an agreement to purchase the SS United States, the historic ocean liner that holds the record for the fastest Atlantic crossing, with plans to create the world’s largest artificial reef off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

DESTIN NAMED #1 FISHING TOWN IN FLORIDA: A new study has crowned Destin as the best fishing destination in Florida, outranking 201 other towns across the state.

OIL RIG ARTIFICIAL REEF: Check out this old oil rig that's set to become the newest artificial reef off Destin-Fort Walton Beach! This "underwater jungle gym" will create a thriving underwater habitat for marine life and an amazing new spot for fishing and diving enthusiasts.

MOCK DUI CRASH AT NICEVILLE HIGH: Ahead of Prom Night on Saturday, Niceville High School, along with several law enforcement and first responding agencies, came together to put on a Mock DUI Demonstration for Juniors and Seniors. @NHSEagles1 @FHPPanhandle @OCSOALERTS

NEW DOLPHIN OASIS: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, located on Okaloosa Island, celebrated the grand opening of its highly anticipated Dolphin Oasis. The $30 million project sits on 2.2 acres.

DETONATING WWII-ERA BOMBS: Today, Eglin Air Force Base detonated three World War 2-era bombs found in Choctawhatchee Bay near Shalimar, Florida.

DEER MOSS CREEK: The Okaloosa County School District is looking ahead to future growth in the Niceville area and how that could impact schools. OCSD is eyeing 30-acres in Deer Moss Creek for future Niceville growth https://t.co/daK3wcSL66

CRAB ISLAND VENDORS: House approves @RepMattGaetz amendment to protect Crab Island vendors from federal regulation. FULL STORY --> https://t.co/80IOpzjlFf

STRANDED BOATERS: Shoutout to the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit and local firefighters who responded to several stranded boaters at Crab Island in Destin. Additionally, numerous vessels and occupants washed ashore on Okaloosa Island due to high winds and currents.

Bear swimming in the Gulf of Mexico today near Destin, Florida 🐻

REGIONAL CHAMPS: The Choctawhatchee High School Indians clinched a decisive victory over the Stanton Blue Devils to become the Flag Football Regional Champs with a final score of 31-13. This win propels the Indians forward into the state semifinals. @ChoctawHS @ChoctawFlagFB