Spear/Freedive Buddy in Wisconsin

There might be some in these forums who will disagree with my advice, but freediving alone while summer spearfishing in midwestern lakes is not that dangerous. In the first place, almost all the carp and panfish you’re pursuing are in shallow water, typically less than 15 feet. In fact many of your shots can be taken while floating on the surface. If you choose, you will never have to put yourself in any position where you’re approaching your breath holding limits and the risk of an underwater blackout.

The most dangerous thing about diving these lakes is getting hit by a boat, even when you are dragging a dive flag. I have had several close calls recently that scared the hell out of me.

I’ve been ocean and freshwater spearfishing since 1975 and easily 95% of the time I was alone. Sure it’s fun with friends but I get nervous when anyone with a speargun in their hands is in the water with me. I never come close to pushing my breath limits and I always carry a knife as I did get in big trouble once with a tangle. I totally enjoy the freedom of diving where and when I want to by diving alone and don’t feel vulnerable without a buddy, though a few extra dive flags might help keep the boats away!

@stick500 This is a recurring topic, diving alone. I think most divers will dive alone when they can't get a buddy. Just take it easy, slow, be totally prepared.

"seems like nobody knows what a dive flag is or what 100 feet actually looks like" - Some idiot boaters will come up to the flag out of curiousity, just to "check it out".