How to Start Spearfishing (Beginner's Guide)

Spearfishing is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to experience the underwater world. Whether you're looking for a sustainable way to catch your own fish or simply want a new adventure, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to get started with spearfishing safely and legally.

1. Basic Equipment for Beginner Spearos

You don’t need expensive gear to begin spearfishing. Here’s the essential equipment every beginner should have:

• Mask & Snorkel

Choose a low-volume mask that fits snugly and comfortably. The snorkel should be simple, J-shaped, and flexible – no need for purge valves or dry-tops.

• Fins

Forget about long freediving fins in the beginning. Standard snorkeling fins are great for shallow water spearfishing and easier to learn with. Once you gain experience, you can upgrade.

• Speargun or Polespear

For beginners, a short speargun (50–75 cm) or a simple polespear is perfect for reef hunting and shallow dives. They're easy to control, safe, and help build good habits.

• Weight Belt

A rubber weight belt with small lead weights helps you stay neutrally buoyant. Never overweight yourself—this is a common mistake that leads to dangerous situations.

• Buoy (Float) and Dive Flag are MANDATORY!

Most countries require a float with a visible dive flag to signal boats that a diver is underwater. In Croatia, for example, spearfishing without a buoy and flag is illegal and heavily fined. The buoy should be connected to you via a floating line and double as a resting support.

2. First Steps: Training and Practice

• Pool Practice

Before diving into the sea, practice in a swimming pool. Learn to equalize, practice static breath holds, and improve finning technique.

• Breath-Holding (Apnea) Basics

Start slowly. Learn relaxed breathing and CO2 tolerance tables. Never push yourself. Your goal isn’t to hold your breath the longest but to stay calm and safe.

• Buddy System

Always dive with a buddy, even in shallow water. Blackouts can happen without warning.

• Learn Duck Dives

Perfect your duck dive technique to enter the water smoothly and conserve energy.

3. Legal Regulations and Zones (Especially in Croatia)

Spearfishing is heavily regulated in many countries. Here's what you must know if you're diving in the Adriatic, especially Croatia:

• License

You must purchase a recreational spearfishing license from the Ministry of Agriculture or at a Harbor Master’s office. It can be bought for a day, week, or year.

Visit their website or local port authority offices.

• Forbidden Zones

Spearfishing is not allowed in:

• Harbors and ports
• National parks (e.g. Brijuni, Kornati, Mljet)
• Marked swimming zones
• Areas less than 300 m from crowded beaches
• Near fish farms or underwater cables

• Float + Flag = Mandatory

By law, you must tow a visible buoy with the international A-flag (red-white) or Croatian alpha flag. You must remain within 50 m of your float.

• Gear Restrictions

• Spearguns must be rubber-powered (no compressed air allowed without permit)
• No scuba gear during spearfishing
• No flashlights or night spearfishing

• Size Limits & Catch Quotas

Learn minimum fish sizes and bag limits. For example, sea bream must be over 20 cm.

4. Best Beginner Spearfishing Spots (Shallow Water)

Look for easy-access, calm locations like:

• Rocky coastlines
• Small bays with sea grass
• Shallow reefs (< 5m depth)

Avoid deep or high-traffic areas until you gain more experience.

5. Final Safety Tips

• Always dive with a buddy
• Never hyperventilate before diving
• Stay well-fed, hydrated, and rested
• Know your limits and respect the sea

Conclusion

Spearfishing is more than catching fish—it’s about patience, awareness, and connecting with nature. Start simple, train safely, follow the rules, and upgrade your gear as your skills improve. Whether you're diving in Croatia or anywhere else in the Mediterranean, always prioritize safety, sustainability, and respect for the sea.

Ready to start your journey? Explore our range of high-quality spearguns and gear designed for both beginners and pros.

Visit our shop and gear up for your first catch!