Are you looking to go spearfishing while you’re on your next vacation? Check out the top 10 destinations for spearfishing around the world. Spearfishing is a centuries-old and powerful practice.
The use of spears to capture fish for centuries dates back to the dawn of man. The oldest recorded record goes back more than 16,000 years to Cosquer Cave in France, which has paintings of the harpooned seals.
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.”
That “charm” that Buchan talks about can be felt ten times by those who venture out of the usual box of fishing and choose to take on the task with a spear.
Anyone who has tried the sport at least once will frequently fall in love with it and their “spearo” identity becomes a part of who they are. And the world is filled with amazing spearfishing spots.
THE FLORIDA KEYS
Each year, the season of grouper commences on the first day of May. It attracts anglers from all over the world. It is also the best season to go fishing for mahi-mahi also known as dolphinfish, and the oceans are filled with life. The Keys are a great place for any experience level, with plenty of shallower spots to explore, and more secluded areas to test your skills.
It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in freediving or snorkeling, or scuba diving, there’s something for everyone within The Florida Keys. Nothing beats a slice of key lime pie to celebrate the catch of the day. Florida does have some regulations about what you can and cannot catch So make sure you be aware of them prior to your trip.
HAWAII
Another area that has deep traditional and cultural ties to spearfishing is the islands of Hawaii. If you’ve had the opportunity to experience spears of Hawaiian design slings spear (also known as pole spear), it’s likely that you have an idea about how enthusiastic spears from Hawaii are. They are the epitome of spearfishing equipment. Historically, the Lawai’a were considered to be the best-known spearfishers of the community. They could pass on their skills to the next generation of Lawai’a. The sport of spearfishing is alive and well.
There’s plenty of mahi-mahi and ono as well as billfish, ahi, and barracuda swimming in the Hawaiian waters, which is the reason that the restaurants in Hawaii offer such fantastic seafood. While scuba spearfishing isn’t permitted in the western parts of Hawaii, there are still numerous wonderful spots to visit. There are eight different islands that comprise Hawaii which means you’ll have plenty of options.
JAPAN
Many of the same species of giant fish found in the water of Bali can be found in Japan. Furthermore, you’ll see Bonito, Japanese yellowtail, amberjacks, snapper, mackerel, and an extensive range of other sea life. Japanese citizens are experts in fish and have an experience in sushi going back many centuries. Although it is a small Island, Japan makes up 15 percent of the world’s fishing catch.
The coastline in Okinawa in Okinawa and Zamami Island are both prime areas for spearfishing. Freediving and spearfishing have long histories in Japan. In fact, there is a well-known tradition of female divers, who are referred to as Ama. They have been diving for abalone, lobsters, and sea urchins since the 17th century. Despite the threats to the environment caused by overfishing Ama continues to be at it in the present.