Spearfishing is an old method of fishing that is used all over the world. Today, it’s still one of the most preferred and sustainable methods for obtaining fresh and healthy fish as it doesn’t require weapons or other hazardous equipment that could cause pollution of the water. The best part is that it can be lots of fun!
Before you begin your dive or go hunting for a big snapper or bass, make sure you have all that you require for catching. It is a good idea to ask other professionals for advice on the equipment that you can use in a specific area because the equipment that you’ll need in the Caribbean is not suitable for locations for spearfishing in New Zealand or San Diego.
To give you some idea of what to expect from what you need, here are the essential tools and equipment you’ll need to enjoy a safe spearfishing experience.
Basic Spearfishing Gear
Flatlay of fish on spearfishing equipment
Every professional spearfisher or “spearo” would know that having the right spearfishing gear is vital for your security and success. Below you will find the most fundamental equipment for fishing that you may have to purchase for your first foray into spearfishing, as well as suggested brands that are popular and highly suggested among other spearos.
Fishing License
Spearfisher in green emerald seawater
While technically not part of the fishing equipment you own it is possible to acquire a valid sportfishing license before you hit the water using your hunting equipment. In many states, you’ll be charged a fine for fishing in the absence of a license, and even face prison as a hunter (and killing) endangered species.
The rule is that you’ll be able to contact your local agencies, lifeguards as well as fishermen’s supply and dive shops, as well as other seasoned spears for advice before doing anything.
Weapon of Choice
Lionfish Pole Spear
It’s time to consider your primary method of spearfishing: Hawaiian slings, pole spears, or a rifle. Hawaiian pole spears and slings will require very close proximity to the fishing, however, they differ in that the sling’s band will typically be held in your hand while the pole spear disappears from your hand completely when apply it to spear the fish. With regard to the speargun, they are different based on their design and construction. Some are launched manually using bands or slings, and others use gas or air (pneumatic).
If you opt for a speargun, you’ll have to consider the transparency of the water and your size for the type of fish you’ll be hunting before deciding on what kind to purchase. Areas with low visibility will require you to get closer to the water, which makes shorter spearguns better. As long as you’re not fishing for a larger fish, you’ll not necessarily require thick long shafts or air-driven spearguns. In most instances, when you’ll need a mid-sized, multiple-band speargun with a longer reach it is possible to do so using roller guns.
The speargun is available at pretty all the stores that sell spearfishing tools. JBL has a good range of entry-level spearguns So, so take a look at the Woody Sawed-Off Magnum Spear Gun ($309.95) from the JBL brand if you’re searching for a weapon that’s easy to operate and powerful. But if you prefer pole spears instead, you may opt for the 5-pronged Lionfish Pole Spear ($26.95) or the JBL 6 Broken Travel Pole Spear ($119.95).
Spearfishing Wetsuits and Rash Guards
One of the most important items you’ll require before spearfishing — or diving, for that matter–is a wetsuit. There are several types and types of wetsuits to choose from, depending on the water temperature and underwater activity.
For spearfishing, you’ll want to look at the suit’s thickness, especially in warmer climates. It’s generally recommended to opt for a suit that is not more than 1.5mm at the most, except for deeper dives in colder waters. If you’re not likely to take deep dives or be on the water for lengthy durations, you are able to go about wearing a rash guard.