First Timer

[Toiletduck]

Hi,

I'm looking to get set up for when the weather gets a bit better, hopefully early next year. I havent spearfished before so I'm wondering what equipment do I need to get.
What type of gun would you recommend for fishing off the west coast of ireland.

Also what time of the year do people start spearfishing at?
I've surfed, fished, snorkled plenty before so this is the next step.

Thanks in advance for the advise,
Tduck

 

[scallywag]

Hi Toiletduck, I'll kick off first with my suggestions. Gun wise most spearos round the U.K use band powered guns in the 75-90 range. As a rule of thumb the better the viz, the further the range, the longer the gun. As for wetsuits, for a first taste a winter surfing suit with hood will do however a purpose made spearfishing suit is miles better. Got mine custom made by Spiros from Oceanos wetusits for £160 delivered. There's some debate as to wether open cell or lined suits are best, mine's lined and because of the custom fit is warm as toast and alot harder wearing and easier to put on, can't recommend Spiros enough. As for times of year to fish just keep an eye on the spearfishing Ireland thread for updates and action.

Well thats a start, Over to someone else for some more input!

 

[scallywag]

A knife is also an essential item. Spearfishing knives tend to be more slender with a point to dispatch fish.This doesn't have to cost the earth I use a cressi killer strapped to my left bicep which cost less than £20.

 

[Toiletduck]

Thanks a million Scallywag,

Do you also use a float attahced to your line?

Also, are ordinary flippers ok or do you need to use ones specific to spearing?

Tduck

 

[scallywag]

The fins are relative to the type of diving you do.
My spearing tends to be done in fairly shallow water and I make do with a pair of diving fins however if you plan deeper dives where maximum efficiency is important for longer breath holds then long and soft freediving fins are the way to go.
I don't tend to use a float again because I like to be amongst the rocks in shallow water less than say 10m, however, if you intend to dive in more open waters or where boat trafic is likley then a float is a must. You may have to check local rules to make sure that a float isn't a requirment in your area.