By Alabama Public Radio
Gulf Shores, AL – State conservation officials spotted 99 sharks Thursday between Dauphin Island and the Alabama-Florida state line. Ninety-two of them were seen in an area near Gulf State Park, and some were within 75 feet of the shoreline. Some state marine biologists say they believe the sharks are being attracted by bait fish. The conservation department has not officially warned people to stay out of the water. But it has issued an advisory about increased shark sightings. It will remain in effect through the Labor Day weekend. Observational flights will continue until the number of sharks spotted drops back to an average level. That's about six.