Thank you for your comment. I`m sorry, I thought I deleted that part. I included lobster because I think it`s a great way to get beginners and kids diving before they start spearfishing. Looking at the article, I agree that it probably shouldn`t be included because it`s an article dedicated to spearfishing, as you said. I raise my hands up and have removed the specific section on lobster. I hope there will be no more confusion. With an abundance of warm waters just offshore, the Keys are perfect for all types of fishing. When it comes to spearfishing, there is something for everyone. Spearfishing can take place 365 days a year, so you`ll never miss a thing. In Monroe County, spearfishing is heavily regulated as a means of resource conservation. Below are regulations that, if violated, can lead to fines or even jail time: If you`re going spear fishing for the first time, be prepared to hold your breath for a while. While most charter operators need some skill to take you to the depths, you should familiarize yourself with a snorkel when harpooning in the shallows.
Spearfishing is a combination of hunting and fishing. All three sports require skill, good sporting ethics and, in most cases, a competent guide. The technique of spearfishing is more closely related to game hunting than hook angling. Common target species in the Florida Keys are grouper, snapper and pig. Underwater fishing has virtually no damage to the environment or non-target species. The crew at Hawks Cay is excited to train anyone interested in participating in spearfishing with a variety of equipment and techniques, with a focus on safety and protection of our natural habitats. Florida law severely restricts spearfishing from shore. Your best opportunity to enjoy the sport is a public or private spear fisherman. All charter vessels carry lobster and fishing licences that cover all passengers on board.
A personal license is not required. The water gets much deeper much faster here, so there are serious offshore spearfishing opportunities for the more qualified. Head to the strait and discover a highway teeming with migratory fish. You can follow Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo and many more. It`s so good here that it`s often considered one of the best underwater fish destinations in the world! The ancient method of spearfishing was once a necessity for hunters around the world. It`s still an effective way to catch fish, but it will also open your eyes to a magical underwater world. With so many fishing opportunities, I don`t recommend adding lobsters to this list as the article deals specifically with underwater fishing. Visitors to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are welcome to dive, swim, snorkel or fish. However, there are rules and regulations in place to ensure that these activities only take place in ways – and in places – that do not harm the resources of the protected area. As you can see, spearfishing is highly regulated in places like Monroe County. Take a look at the FWC website here.
There are also areas, such as the existing administrative area of Greater Looe Key, where spearfishing is not allowed. The southernmost tip of the United States is the gateway to incredible underwater fishing opportunities. A stone`s throw from the shore, there are plenty of coral heads for beginners to hunt pigs and small snappers. With fewer restrictions than the Upper Keys and home to more wrecks, the Middle Keys are favorite spots for harpoonfish. Despite the restrictions near the shore, the shallows continue to expand here. When it comes to catching the fish, nothing will raise your heart rate more than the hand-to-hand combat you get underwater. People compare spearfishing to spearfishing – we can assure you it`s more than that! At such a great distance from the fish, you must be on your guard against predators at all times. You may also need to lift heavy objects if the fish tries to escape. Some underwater fishermen use diving equipment, which reduces the risks associated with deep-sea snorkeling. In the Florida Keys, underwater hunters can choose whether or not to carry a scuba tank while harpooning some of our tastiest fish species that inhabit the shallow waters of our coral reefs.
The fishing grounds from the Everglades to Islamorada are famous all over the world. Unfortunately, spearfishing is prohibited in some of the shallower waters. There is a 3-mile « sanctuary preservation area » that limits spearfishing opportunities. From the Everglades to Key West, the Florida Keys are home to some of the best waters in the country, for many reasons. Fishermen and water sports enthusiasts flock to these productive seas all year round. With spearfish, you can combine both! Snorkel or scuba dive in a Florida Keys submarine, and you`ll aim for anything you want for dinner. There is also the possibility of hunting lobster when the season starts in summer. Beginners may have their first taste of diving to catch these precious creatures. After a few hours in the water, you`ll be hooked! Just be careful not to be able to use a spear – so it won`t really be spearfishing! Spear phishing is a general term that includes bow fishing, laughter, spearfishing (underwater) or using any other device to catch a fish by piercing its body. Spear phishing does not involve hooking or breaking hooks using a hook and leash. Marine species harvested with spears are subject to the same recreational regulations (e.g., harvest restrictions, size restrictions, and closing seasons) as marine species harvested from any other type of recreational equipment.
Below is a list of species or groups of species that are not allowed to be caught by all forms of spearfishing in state waters: Spearfishing can also be a useful way to help the environment — and Florida Keyspearfishing is no different. Invasive lionfish invade reefs and its venom can be harmful to the ecosystem. Pursue these thorny creatures and do your part for the environment and take home a delicious treat too. Generally ignored by conventional anglers, the colorful pork is ideal for beginners in spearfishing. They tend to congregate in the shallows so you can dive freely for them. The fact that they will dazzle you with their beauty if you chase them makes it an even easier target! After devouring the fruits of your labor at the end of the day, you will desperately try to get back into the water. These land creatures love warm waters and live along the reefs or wrecks of the Florida Keys. Known for their delicious taste, they will prove to be a worthy reward at the end of a hard day of spearfishing. You also need to make sure you have the right spear. If you go with a Florida Keys underwater fishing guide, you may not have a choice in what you get. However, if you must bring your own, consider choosing between a harpoon, pole spear, or Hawaiian slingshot.
Find out what`s right for you with our easy-to-use guide. Your best bet to stay safe is with an experienced Florida Keys spear fisherman or dive guide. Each qualified diver knows the best places and makes sure all equipment is installed. They will also give you all the support you need to stay safe and have a fun day! However, if you`ve completed a spearfishing qualification, you`re in luck. Spearfishing tours in Islamorada and Key Largo take you to medium-deep waters and hunt big, strong and valuable fish. Aim for snappers, groupers and many other delicious fish in reefs and wrecks. Harpooning is defined as « catching or catching a fish by bow fishing, spearfishing, or by any other device used to catch a fish by piercing its body. Spear phishing does not include catching or catching a fish by phishing with hook and line equipment or by capture (snatching phishing). Anglers who catch and/or sell fish harvested by the spear are subject to the same rules and restrictions as other state anglers.
The experienced spearfishing team of the Florida Keys at Hawks Cay has been teaching spearfishing courses and courses, as well as guided excursions, in a highly safe and athletic manner for decades.