What is the correct type of spear or spear tip to use when shooting large sucker fish resting on solid rock? I am using an old Beuchat Arka where the bill is perhaps a couple inches from the tip and this just wont work. Is a speargun completely the wrong tool, a pole spear is particularly difficult as getting that close to the fish is very challenging?
Typically I would use a pole spear with a three-prong, similar to Pete's response, but without the barbs. If the fish is large, then having the barbs is good.
You mentioned getting close is difficult with a pole spear. If could possibly get a side shot on the fish, I'd do that to minimize spear damage. Sometimes I de-band my gun one band to lessen the power. It works on fish that are still further away for a pole spear, but in the rocks.
Two other options are:
- find a threaded spear shaft and attach a 3 prong to the tip. I've used that before, long ago.
- If the fish is worth it, just shoot it, but I'd recommend using a stronger shaft, like a RA shaft. I've had better luck with RA shafts not bending shooting into rocks.
I've done all of the above for fish hugging rocks.