Hello all

[Osama Mohamed]

Hi everybody! I am new here, been lurking for a little bit though. I have been reading up on all the beginner forums, and am starting to learn my breathing techniques. I have a trip planned to Portugal this May, and am hoping that I can get my breathing to be sufficient that I might be able to get someone to take my spearfishing. I have 0 experience though and 100% understand there is significant liability. I look forward to being part of this community as I learn to dive. Sadly I live in Idaho, and we're not really known for our waters (minus the blue ribbon trout fishing).

If anyone knows any tips or tricks to help a beginner, I would appreciate them, but as for now, reading and application is where I am at!

Thank you all, and Greetings again!

 

[BatRay]

Welcome to Deeperblue! There is a lot of good info on this site. You'll learn a lot simply by browsing and searching keywords, especially in the Freediving and Beginner Freediving subforums. Of course, there is nothing better than qualified instruction. It can be hard to come by in landlocked areas, but it's well worth the effort.

Glad you could join us

 

[MikeMcC100!]

Welcome to diving. Reach out to dive shops and connect with an experienced dive master. I made all my sons learn to dive safely b4 they ravaged the reef of marine life. Safe travels

 

[Osama Mohamed]

I've stopped by all 3 dive shops on Boise, and none of them have much to offer in terms of free diving. The deepest pool in the area is 13', and it's way too cold to try and learn in the reservoirs with snow melt. I have however been reading and working on my breath hold, and can get anywhere from 1:30-2:00 fairly consistently with a brief breathe up. I tend to stop after 3 or 4, but am building up to holding more times. I'm also giving myself a day or 2 in between so I don't over do it.

That being said. Would it still be wise to learn scuba, or scuba tactics? I have experience with an SCBA, from working for the fire department.

 

[MikeMcC100!]

I've stopped by all 3 dive shops on Boise, and none of them have much to offer in terms of free diving. The deepest pool in the area is 13', and it's way too cold to try and learn in the reservoirs with snow melt. I have however been reading and working on my breath hold, and can get anywhere from 1:30-2:00 fairly consistently with a brief breathe up. I tend to stop after 3 or 4, but am building up to holding more times. I'm also giving myself a day or 2 in between so I don't over do it.

That being said. Would it still be wise to learn scuba, or scuba tactics? I have experience with an SCBA, from working for the fire department.

It's my opinion that know one has the monopoly on good ideas. Scuba training will lead to repeat dives and an opportunity to acclimate to the water. To learn to conserve air and open up a world of spearfishing opportunities to you Osama, that you currently don't have. I shoot more fish with a tank on than I do free diving. I shoot big fish or abalone when free diving! I believe it all makes you stronger and well rounded!

 

[Osama Mohamed]

I never really considered the O2 consumption part! I've been trying to run more, my cardio training has never been great. The problem with being landlocked as well is there aren't a lot of dive sites here. We've got a couple really clear lakes, about 30-50' deep, but the thermocline is generally around 15-25' and the water is generally cold. My buddy spearfishes with scuba gear, and it sounds pretty efficient.