Are you thinking of going fishing on your next vacation? Spearfishing is an ancient and powerful practice.
Spears have been used for fishing since the dawn of the human race. The oldest documented record dates back 16,000 years to Cosquer Cave in France, which has paintings of Harpooned seals.
There is something distinctive about techniques for hunting that were employed many thousands of years ago, and are still in use today.
The Scottish novelist John Buchan once said, “The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.”
It is said that this “charm” that Buchan talks about can be experienced tenfold by those who venture out from the norm of fishing and choose to do it with spears.
People who have tried the sport initially often fall in love with it and their “spearo” identity becomes a part of the person they are.
And the world is full of amazing spearfishing destinations.
THE FLORIDA KEYS
Each year, the season of grouper starts on the first of May. The season draws anglers with spearfishing gear from all over the world. This is also the peak time to catch some mahi-mahi also known as dolphinfish. the oceans are alive with life. The Keys are the perfect location for all levels of experience, with plenty of shallower areas to explore, or deeper areas to test your skill.
It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in freediving or snorkeling, or scuba diving there’s something for all within The Florida Keys. It’s hard to beat a slice of key lime pie in celebration of the best catch. Florida does have some rules regarding what you are allowed and cannot catch be caught, so ensure you read up before you go.
BALI, INDONESIA
Bali has become the biggest and most popular vacation spot in Indonesia. With its ancient temples that are surrounded by clear blue waters, it’s hard to find anywhere else in the world like it. A dogtooth tuna is a huge draw, as well as sailfish, dolphinfish, Spanish mackerel, as well as the huge Trevally.
Dogtooth tuna can grow in the range of 250+ pounds, while the giant trevally has been reported for reaching 175. Thus, taking a trip to Bali means that you’ll be swimming with some huge fish in a surreal and stunning environment. While you’re in the ocean’s depths, observe other marine life, like the hawksbill turtle, huge moray eels, hammerhead sharks, and giant manta ray.
HAWAII
Another area with deep traditional and historical ties to spearfishing is the Hawaiian islands. Hawaii. If you’ve ever been aware of the Hawaiian style of sling spear, or pole spear, you’ve probably got an idea of how passionate spearos from Hawaii are.
Historically, the Lawai’a were considered to be the most respected spearfishers in the community, and they could pass on their skills to the younger generations of the Lawai’a. But spearfishing is definitely still active and alive today. There’s no shortage of mahi-mahi, ono, billfish, and ahi barracuda swimming in the Hawaiian seas, which is the reason why restaurants in Hawaii serve amazing seafood. While scuba spearfishing isn’t permitted in the western parts of Hawaii however, there are many amazing spots to explore. Since there are eight different islands that makeup Hawaii there are plenty of choices to choose from.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
The Pacific halibut that live all along the coastline of California can be a dream for spearfishers. They are the largest flatfish in this world, they are able to be your Moby Dick. Moby Dick. One year ago, a spearfisher landed a Pacific halibut that weighed 482 pounds. (And it wasn’t an error – it was 482 pounds. This is two Brett Favres, plus some.)
It’s easy to spot these monsters all over the entire coastline, but If you’re forced to pick only one location, San Diego is known as a paradise for fishermen. If you want to reap the rewards of this kind of investment, you might need to put in some extra effort though.
Pacific Halibut is known for its ability to put up an aggressive fight when caught, therefore you may want to bring a friend with you for this particular trip. You’ll also find plenty of other fish species in the Golden State, including halibut white and striped sea bass, red snapper, sheepshead yellowtail, barracuda, and Bonita.