So, when lightning hits the water, the current zips across the surface in all directions. And if you're swimming anywhere in the vicinity, it'll probably hit you. But below the surface, most of the electricity is instantly neutralized. So the fish are generally spared.

Do fish die from lightning strikes?

Bodies of water are frequently struck by lightning. So why don't all the fish die? ... When lightning strikes, most of electrical discharge occurs near the water's surface. Most fish swim below the surface and are unaffected.

Does lightning electrocute fish?

NARRATOR: Lightning is a rapid discharge of electrical energy in the atmosphere. ... Lightning doesn't strike the ocean as much as land, but when it does,it spreads out over the water, which acts as a conductor. It can hit boats that are nearby, and electrocute fish that are near the surface.