Things you will learn in this article:

  • The necessary spearfishing equipment
  • How to pick the right snorkels, masks, and wetsuits for your needs
  • What makes a good pair of fins
  • How to use the weight system
  • How to choose the speargun that fits your fishing expectations

Going spearfishing is one of the most primal and rewarding forms of fishing. It combines the thrill of the hunt with the serenity of being underwater. Unlike traditional angling, spearfishing requires you to pursue the fish in their natural environment. It is more adventurous and active, and has evolved into a modern sport that demands skill, patience, and respect for marine ecosystems.

Part of your spearfishing adventure is to discover the underwater world and connect with it. You get glimpses of life in the sea. This sport lets you become an active participant rather than just an observer. You learn about fish behavior, ocean conditions, and how to adjust your body to the requirements of this world.

A successful spearfishing adventure depends on the right equipment. Each piece of gear serves a purpose and impacts your safety, comfort, and effectiveness. Quality equipment is not just about performance; it is about enjoying your sport safely. With the right equipment, you can also maximize your time in the water and extend your expeditions.

Let’s take a look at the basic spearfishing equipment you will need.

The Diving Mask: Your Window to the Underwater World

A quality mask provides clear vision underwater, allowing you to see beneath the surface.

Perfect fit

One thing to look for in a diving mask is a perfect fit. The mask must seal comfortably against your face without requiring the strap to hold it in place. Try a simple test: place the mask against your face without the strap and inhale gently through your nose. The mask should stay in place through suction alone. In addition to a proper seal, many spearfishers opt for low-volume masks because they contain less air space. Low-volume masks sit closer to the face, making equalization easier and reducing drag while swimming.

Lens material

Another key part of the mask is the lens. Tempered glass is the industry standard as it won't shatter into dangerous shards if broken. It also provides excellent vision compared to plastic alternatives. Some masks feature side windows for peripheral vision, though these do increase the internal volume slightly. When purchasing a mask, check which feature matters most to you.

Fishing environment

Your fishing environment impacts your mask choice. In clear tropical waters, a standard clear lens mask works perfectly well. If you are diving in murky water or at greater depths where light becomes limited, consider masks with larger lenses that maximize light intake. In contrast, if you choose to spearfish in shallow reef environments, where precision around coral and rocks is required, a low-profile mask reduces drag and catches less current.

Top mask recommendations

  • The Cressi F1 is an excellent low-volume option that provides an outstanding field of view with easy equalization characteristics.
  • The Mares X-Vision is popular for its side lenses that offer improved peripheral vision.

Snorkels: Breathing Made Simple

The snorkel might seem like a simple piece of equipment, but it is the cornerstone of your dive, as it lets you breathe while floating face down on the surface. With a snorkel, you observe the underwater environment quietly as you breathe through it.

Simple J-tube designs

The most effective snorkels feature a simple J-tube design. Many beginners like dry-top snorkels with purge valves and other features, while experienced spearfishers usually opt for the reliability of a basic tube.

The mouthpiece must be made of soft silicone to minimize jaw fatigue, and the bore size must be large enough to allow for comfortable breathing.

A flexible section near the mouthpiece lets the snorkel move naturally with your head position and reduces jaw strain. It also prevents the tube from being pulled from your mouth when you dive.  

Diving expeditions

If you frequently dive to depth and spend minimal time on the surface, opt for a lightweight design that doesn't interfere with your diving. If you prefer long surface swims or extended observation periods, comfort becomes more significant. In rough water conditions, simpler designs tend to be more reliable and more practical.

Top snorkel recommendations

  • The Cressi Supernova Dry is a reliable option, featuring a well-designed purge valve that functions effectively when needed.
  • The Mares Ergo Dry features a practical design with an exceptionally comfortable mouthpiece that reduces fatigue.

Spearfishing Wetsuits: Your Thermal Protection System

First and foremost, you need a wetsuit to keep warm. But you also need one for buoyancy control and to protect yourself from encounters with marine life. In addition, a wetsuit protects your skin from abrasions against rocks, coral, and other underwater hazards.

Wetsuit thickness

The proper wetsuit thickness demands vary with water temperature, but the relationship isn't always straightforward:

  • In warm tropical waters above 75°F, you may get away with a 1-3mm suit or even just a Lycra skin for sun protection.
  • Temperate waters between 60-75°F require 3-5mm full suits to stay comfortable during extended sessions.
  • Cold waters below 60°F require 5-7mm suits. Experienced spearfishers often opt for two-piece systems for additional core warmth. Additionally, they can layer their outfit according to the water temperature.

Fit

A suit that is too loose will allow water to flush through and destroy the thin layer of warm water that insulates your body. Conversely, a suit that's too tight will restrict blood flow and breathing; you will quickly feel tired just trying to swim in such a tight suit.

A suit with proper fitting must feel snug when dry but not restrictively tight. Keep in mind that neoprene will loosen slightly when wet and warm.

Swimming environment

If you are spearfishing around rocky reefs or wrecks, reinforced knee and chest panels are certainly welcome. Rocky coastal areas require suits with reinforced protection for your safety.

If you like to dive from boats in open water, opt for a wetsuit that keeps you warm. Remember that temperatures vary with the seasons: you may need different suits for summer and winter diving, or a modular system that allows layering.

The type of diving you plan to do also matters. If you like to deep-dive, you might prefer a smooth-skin suit. If shallow waters are your thing, lined neoprene is more flexible.

Top wetsuit recommendations

  • The Scubapro Definition is an excellent mid-range option that strikes a balance between thermal protection and the flexibility required for comfortable diving and spearfishing.
  • The Seac Warmdry is gaining popularity among serious spearfishers who appreciate its warmth and flexibility.

Spearfishing Gloves: Protecting Your Hands

Quality gloves protect your hands from cuts, stings, and cold water, while providing the dexterity needed to handle your equipment. They also offer a good grip on wet surfaces and equipment.

Glove thickness

Like wetsuits, gloves come in thicknesses.

Thinner gloves in the 1-3mm range provide excellent tactile feedback and finger sensitivity. Thicker 5mm gloves offer better warmth in cold water and protection against sharp coral, fish spines, and rough surfaces.

Many spearfishers find that 2-3mm gloves provide the best compromise for most conditions.

Palm material

Reinforced palms with textured surfaces offer a significantly improved grip on smooth spearguns and other equipment. They also add durability where wear is heaviest. Some gloves feature different materials on the palm and fingers for both grip and flexibility.

Full-finger or fingerless?

Consider whether you need full-finger coverage or prefer fingerless designs for improved sensitivity.

Full-finger gloves offer maximum protection and warmth, but can reduce the sensation of trigger pressure. Fingerless gloves are more flexible but leave your fingertips vulnerable to cuts and cold.

Environmental factors

Rocky reef environments with sharp coral and abrasive surfaces call for maximum protection, even at the cost of some dexterity. In areas with stinging marine life, such as jellyfish or fire coral, opt for full hand coverage.

If you dive in cold water, choose warm gloves, even if they sacrifice some flexibility.

Cuff design

Longer cuffs that extend well up the wrist prevent water from seeping through. Some designs feature wrist straps or closures that help seal your wetsuit sleeve.

Top glove recommendations

  • The Cressi High Stretch gloves strike a balance between protection and dexterity. They have reinforced palms and flexible construction that doesn't restrict hand movement.
  • The ScubaPro D-flex offers superior stretch and excellent durability, though at a higher price point.
  • The Akona Belize with added grip is great for reed spearfishing.

Spearfishing Fins: Your Underwater Propulsion System

Fins will make your spearfishing a smooth adventure. The right fins can make the difference between effortless diving and exhausting struggles against the water.

Fin length

Fin length directly affects power and efficiency, impacting the energy required to use them effectively.

Longer fins offer more thrust per kick and are more efficient if you want to cover long distances or dive deep. But they also require more leg strength and can be cumbersome in tight spaces around reefs and structures.

Shorter fins are easier to use and more maneuverable, but require more frequent kicking to keep your speed.

Blade stiffness

Softer blades are more forgiving and require less strength to use effectively. They are ideal for beginners or those with less developed leg muscles.

Stiffer blades generate more power per kick but require greater leg strength. Many experienced divers prefer stiffer blades, especially when diving deep or battling strong currents.

Foot pocket

A loose foot pocket can cause blisters and reduce power transfer, while one that's too tight will restrict circulation and lead to cramping. The foot pocket must hold your foot securely without creating pressure points. The blade must align properly with your leg.

Fin material

Fins are traditionally made from plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber:

  • Plastic fins are affordable and durable, but less efficient than higher-end options.
  • Fiberglass blades perform well, offering a good balance of power at a reasonable price point.
  • Carbon fiber is the premium option for maximum efficiency and performance, but at a significantly higher cost.

Dive style

If you like to deep-dive, you want longer, stiffer blades that maximize efficiency during long ascents and descents. Conversely, shallow reef spearfishing calls for shorter, more maneuverable fins.

If you are a beginner, consider starting with medium-length, moderately soft blades, which are more forgiving to learn on.

Current conditions

Consider the current conditions in diving areas. Strong currents require stiffer blades that can generate the power needed to keep your position against the flow. In calmer conditions, you can favor efficiency and comfort over raw power.

Top fin recommendations

The Aqualung Storm fins are excellent all-around fins suitable for most divers and conditions. They strike a balance between power, efficiency, and maneuverability at a reasonable price.

At the premium end, ScubaPro Seawing Nova fins offer maximum efficiency and performance for serious spearfishers willing to invest in top-quality equipment.

Weight Systems: Achieving Perfect Buoyancy

Proper weighting helps you achieve neutral buoyancy at your target depth, allowing you to dive with minimal effort. Too little weight and you will struggle to descend and maintain depth, too much and you will sink like a stone.

The weight belt

A rubber weight belt is generally a better alternative to nylon because it stretches with your body and maintains your position more effectively as your wetsuit compresses with depth. Rubber belts also tend to stay in place better during active fishing and are less likely to slide around your waist.

Release mechanisms

Your weight belt must be able to drop instantly if you need emergency buoyancy. Practice the release motion until it becomes automatic and second nature.

Weight distribution

Evenly spaced weights prevent the belt from rolling and reduce pressure points. Some divers prefer to position slightly more weight toward their back to keep a head-down diving posture.

Calculate weights

How much weight do you need? The calculation goes beyond your body weight.

Consider the thickness of your spearfishing wetsuit, as thicker neoprene provides more buoyancy, which you must offset with additional weight.

Saltwater requires more weight than freshwater due to its increased buoyancy. Saltwater is denser than freshwater because of the dissolved salts, which increase the buoyant force.

As you descend underwater, the increased pressure compresses the neoprene in your wetsuit, reducing the air trapped inside and therefore decreasing its buoyancy. This loss of buoyancy occurs regardless of whether you are in saltwater or freshwater.

Begin with a conservative estimate and refine it through testing. A properly weighted diver must be able to maintain neutral buoyancy at their target hunting depth with empty lungs. To achieve this, make sure you are slightly positive at the surface with full lungs, allowing for buoyancy loss as you descend and your wetsuit compresses.

Environmental factors

If you are spearfishing in areas with strong currents, you might need more weight to maintain your position.

Deep diving requires precise weighting since minor errors are magnified at depth. Shore diving might influence your weight choice based on entry and exit conditions.

Top weight system recommendations

  • The Trident Adjustable QR weight belt is a quality option with reliable quick-release buckle systems that have proven themselves over years of use. The belt's adjustable design allows for customization of weight placement and distribution.
  • The XS Scuba ankle weights provide additional trim options, allowing divers to fine-tune their underwater positioning and stability.

Dive Knives: Your Multi-Tool

A dive knife is not only useful for spearfishing but also serves as a safety tool.

Blade size

The blade size must strike a balance between utility and convenience. Larger blades can be unwieldy and may catch on things while diving. Smaller blades may be inadequate for larger fish or cutting through tough materials.

A 4-6 inch blade is ideal for most tasks and is manageable underwater, while being easy to secure to your person.

Steel quality

Stainless steel is the norm for corrosion resistance, but not all stainless steels are created equal. Look for knives made from high-quality stainless steel alloys that can hold a sharp edge and resist corrosion. Some knives feature special coatings for even greater corrosion resistance.

Edge design

A straight edge is ideal for making precise cuts and performing utility work. A serrated section is welcome when cutting through rope, kelp, and tough materials. Many dive knives feature both edge types on the same blade.

Handle design

The handle must provide a secure, non-slip grip that works reliably even with gloves. Finger grooves and textured surfaces help with finger control. Check that the overall fits comfortably in your hand.

Fishing preferences

Smaller reef fish require less substantial blades. If you like to spearfish in the open sea, you need larger knives.

If you frequently dive in kelp forests, a serrated edge comes in handy to cut through vegetation.

Top knife recommendations

The Cressi Borg is a reliable performer, with good ergonomics at a reasonable price. It is an excellent choice for most spearfishers.

The ScubaPro Mako features a multi-function blade that includes a serrated edge for sawing through rope, a conventional edge for making clean slicing cuts, a line cutting notch, and a bottle opener. The Tanto tip, with its angled shape, is one of the strongest knife points available.

Spearguns: Your Main Tool

The speargun is obviously your primary tool. The choice of speargun impacts your spearfishing and how you enjoy your adventure.

Band-powered spearguns

Band-powered spearguns are the most common type: they use rubber bands to propel the spear. They are generally easier to maintain, more reliable, and more forgiving for beginners to learn on. Its power can be easily adjusted by adding or removing bands, and repairs are straightforward with readily available parts.

Pneumatic spearguns

Pneumatic spearguns use compressed air to drive the spear. They are more powerful in a shorter package. Pneumatic spearguns are particularly effective for larger fish and can be more accurate thanks to their consistent power delivery. However, they do require more maintenance and are more sensitive to sand and debris, while some beginners may find them complicated.

Gun length

Gun length affects how the speargun performs.

Longer guns in the 90-130cm range are more accurate and powerful, making them ideal for open-water hunting and targeting larger fish. The increased barrel length provides a more precise aim and a more complete band stretch, resulting in higher spear velocity and energy.

Medium-length guns, in the 75-90cm range, strike a balance between power and maneuverability. They are practical choices for mixed spearfishing expeditions. They are powerful enough for most fish and remain manageable in moderately confined spaces.

Shorter guns, in the 60-75cm range, are ideal in tight spaces around reefs, caves, and structures where longer guns would be unwieldy. They sacrifice some power and accuracy, but their maneuverability is unmatched in tight underwater spaces.

Power requirements

Power requirements must match your target species and spearfishing environment.

You can catch small reef fish with light guns featuring single bands. Light guns minimize damage to the fish and reduce the chance of over-penetration.

Medium-sized fish, ranging from 2 to 10 kilograms, require guns with double bands or moderate pneumatic power.

Large species over 10 kilograms demand high-powered guns with multiple bands or high-pressure pneumatic systems.

Spearfishing environment

Your environment influences your gun selection.

Open ocean fishing requires longer, more powerful guns that can handle larger fish at greater distances.

Reef and structure spearfishing calls for shorter, more maneuverable guns that you can aim quickly in confined spaces. Cave and wreck hunting requires compact spearguns that won't get caught on overhead obstacles.

Finally, premium guns feature better triggers, more precise manufacturing tolerances, and higher quality materials that translate to better performance when it matters most. You have to balance performance against cost and decide which feature is more significant to you.

Top speargun recommendations

The A.B. Biller Special is an excellent entry to intermediate-level gun that delivers solid performance and reliability at a reasonable price. It's well-suited for most fishing situations and fish sizes while being forgiving enough for developing skills.

The JBL Magnum offers higher-end performance with improved accuracy and build quality. It is ideal for serious spearfishers seeking excellent performance. Its design incorporates features that improve both power delivery and handling characteristics.

Getting Started with Spearfishing

While the right equipment will certainly make your spearfishing expeditions better and more successful, your journey requires more than that.

Observe your fishing waters

Begin by becoming familiar with the local fishing waters and the species that inhabit them. Observe fish behavior, seasonal patterns, and habitats to improve your success rate and fish more sustainably.

Get proper training

Do not underestimate proper training. Look for experienced teachers or formal courses that can teach you vital skills, such as breath-holding techniques, underwater safety, fish handling, and local regulations.

Check your area for spearfishing clubs or associations that welcome newcomers and provide valuable learning opportunities.

Understand your equipment

Practice your equipment handling and shooting accuracy on land before entering the water. Load and reload your speargun repeatedly until the motions become automatic. Practice shooting at targets to develop your skills and learn your gun's capabilities and limitations.

Local regulations

Learn and respect local regulations. Spearfishing rules vary by location and may include restrictions on species, size, season, area, and equipment. Respect these regulations to protect the environment and avoid penalties.

Always safe

Your safety comes first. The following instructions are key to staying safe. Never dive alone; always use the buddy system. Know your physical limitations. You need to know which safety equipment is proper and how to use it. Spearfishing accidents are often preventable with proper preparation and prudent decision-making.

Quality over quantity

Focus on quality over quantity in both equipment and approach. It's better to invest in a few high-quality pieces of equipment than to accumulate a lot of mediocre gear. Likewise, taking fewer, higher-quality fish is more sustainable and ultimately more satisfying than filling a bag with marginal specimens.

Divers Supply for Your Spearfishing

Spearfishing blends physical challenge, mental discipline, and environmental connection that few other activities can match. The sport demands respect for both the marine environment and one's own limitations, but offers extraordinary rewards for those willing to invest the time and effort in developing their skills.

While the initial investment in quality gear may seem substantial, the right tools will provide years of reliable service and accompany you through your underwater adventures.

Remember that becoming a skilled spearfisher is a journey that unfolds over many seasons and countless dives. Start with the necessary equipment that fits with your local conditions and upgrade components as your experience grows and your interests develop.

The most successful spearfishers combine technical skills with profound knowledge and respect for the marine environment. We are temporary visitors in a complex ecosystem that deserves protection. This perspective not only makes you a better fisherman but also guarantees the sport remains sustainable for future generations to enjoy.

Choose your gear carefully, learn to use it properly, and always remember that the most incredible catches are often the memories and experiences that come from time spent beneath the waves in pursuit of the perfect shot.

Whichever gear you choose, our staff at Divers Supply is always happy to help you pick the best one for your needs. Order online or at a store near you — and don't forget to check our sale section and our new arrivals!

Key takeaways

  • Spearfishing gear is available in a wide range of price points. Start with quality but affordable gear and slowly upgrade it as you become more experienced.
  • A lot of gear depends on where you will be spearfishing. Wetsuit thickness depends on the water temperature, the size of your knife depends on the type of fish you will be catching, and your fin size depends on the kind of water you will be diving in.
  • Do not underestimate safety and comfort.
  • Before you begin your spearfishing adventures, get proper training
  • Always go spearfishing with a buddy

 

FAQs

How much should I expect to spend on a complete spearfishing setup?

A basic starter setup can range from $400 to $800, including a mask and snorkel, fins, a wetsuit, a weight belt, a knife, and an entry-level speargun. Mid-range setups cost between $800 and $1,500, while premium equipment can exceed $2,000. It's better to buy quality gear once rather than repeatedly replace cheap equipment.

What's the one piece of equipment to invest in first?

A properly fitting mask is the first item to invest in because poor vision underwater makes everything else irrelevant. After that, focus on a wetsuit suitable for your water temperature and a reliable speargun that is appropriate for your target species and hunting environment.

Can I use regular scuba diving gear for spearfishing?

Some scuba gear works fine (mask, fins, weights), but spearfishing-specific equipment is usually better. Spearfishing wetsuits are more flexible, freediving fins are longer and more efficient, and dive knives designed for spearfishing have features specifically for fish handling and line cutting.

How do I determine the correct thickness of a wetsuit I need?

Water temperature is the primary factor: 1-3mm for water above 75°F, 3-5mm for water between 60°F and 75°F, and 5-7mm for water below 60°F. Also consider how long you will be diving, your cold tolerance, and whether you will be diving to great depths, where compression reduces insulation.

What's the difference between band-powered and pneumatic spearguns?

Band-powered guns use rubber bands for propulsion, are easier to maintain, and can be adjusted by adding/removing bands. Pneumatic guns use compressed air, can be more powerful in shorter packages, but require more maintenance and are more complex for beginners.

How long should my speargun be?

Gun length depends on your hunting environment: 60-75cm for tight reef spaces, 75-90cm for mixed conditions, and 90-130cm for open water and large fish. Longer guns are more accurate and powerful, but they are also harder to maneuver in confined spaces.

Do I really need a float and a float line?

Yes, absolutely. Float systems provide safety because they mark your location, offer fish storage, and are required by law in many areas. The float line must be 50% longer than your maximum dive depth.

What maintenance does spearfishing equipment require?

Rinse all equipment with fresh water after each use, especially metal components. Store neoprene away from heat and UV light. Check bands, lines, and safety releases. Service spearguns according to the manufacturer's recommendations and replace worn components as needed.

How do I choose between different fin materials?

Plastic fins are affordable and durable, but less efficient than fins made from stiffer materials. Fiberglass fins offer excellent performance and value for most divers, combining efficiency with moderate cost. Carbon fiber fins provide maximum efficiency and performance, but they come at a significantly higher price. Choose fins based on your budget, skill level, and desired performance.

Is it worth buying used spearfishing gear?

Some items, like masks, snorkels, and bare wetsuits, can be good used purchases provided they are in good condition. However, be cautious with safety equipment such as spearguns, weight belts, and knives. Always inspect used gear thoroughly and replace any components that appear questionable.