A rookie Spearo in West Sussex

[EnviroPaul]

Hello,

After a couple of trial breath-hold spearfishing dives with a friend in South Wales, I am desperate to try the sport some more. I live near the Sussex/Hampshire border and I know that the biggest challenge round here when shore diving is the visibility.
I have a wetsuit, minima mask, fins, a weight belt and a Cressi Apache gun all ready to go, along with a buddy who is also keen to give the sport a try. I have a shooting background, so I take safety VERY seriously.

My question is if there are any other Spearo's in my area who would be happy to show a rookie the ropes, or indeed just give spine pointers for good places to try shore diving?

Many thanks in advance

Paul

 

[Mr. X]

Hi Paul,
FYI I have moved your thread to the UK region section of the forum but left a permanent link in the beginner area too.

Sounds like you are in a good area for spearfishing. I believe there is a British Spearfishing Association club in Sussex, some of the members are on DeeperBlue.com, some active in spearfishing competitions (some spearos like competing, some don't, some are strongly against it).

BSA clubs: http://www.underwaterfishing.co.uk/club-3/

Coincidentally I did a short dive near Gosport last weekend - although without speargun - it was my first dive in the area. Quite warm but visibility was too poor for spearing and the spot I went to was rather shallow and unpromising. Another spot near by was very clear but even shallower. Bogner, Shoreham & Brighton might be more promising spots.


http://www.express.co.uk/news/nature/523015/Hurricane-Gonzalo-Britain-prepares-for-rain-and-wind

 

[EnviroPaul]

Many thanks Mr X - hadn't realised there was a region section to the forum.

Yes I went off Selsey last weekend, but the visibility was terrible - somewhat expected given the big tide and moderate chop from previous windy weather. Nice to just get a swim in....

 

[speerolee]

Hi Paul

If the competitive aspect isn't your thing, then try http://www.spearfishing.co.uk/spearfishing-courses/

The ethos is focused on safety and putting food on the table. It is a fantastic way to start of spearfishing on the right foot.

 

[EnviroPaul]

Thanks Lee - a useful resource. I'll consider one of those courses - hopefully they run them round here and it doesn't require a 6hr trip to Cornwall...

Ta

 

[speerolee]

Hi Paul,
We run regular courses in Dorset too, and of course can cater for Sussex area upon request.

All kit is provided and great discounts on purchases of Rob Allen gear after the course.

 

[EnviroPaul]

Hi Lee,

Dorset isn't too far for me - I'm interested!

Can you PM me details?

Cheers

 

[speerolee]

Pm sent

 

[Ben O'Neill]

Hi can I get a PM on course dates too? I'm in London so could travel to Dorset but my folks are in Sussex so keen to learn about that area.