WHAT IS SPEARFISHING?
A: The simple definition of spearfishing is fishing with a spear. If you are new to the sport, you may be picturing yourself in a loin cloth with a throw spear in your hand... don't worry thats not how we do it at South Maui Spearfishing. Modern spearfishing has all the commodities to keep you warm, safe and aiming steady. Wetsuits, snorkels and masks make your time in the water comfortable and sustaining. Spearguns are almost weightless in the water and are equipped with shooting line and a barbed shaft to help bring in your catch. South Maui Spearfishing defines and teaches spearfishing in Maui as underwater hunting. Mastering technique, studying your target fish and diving safe should be the focus of all spearos seeking success.
HOW DOES SPEARFISHING
HELP THE ECO SYSTEM?
In the 1950's, 15 species of invasive fish were introduced to Hawaii, with the hopes they would enhance the states fisheries. Unfortunately without native predators the invasive fish began to overpopulate the reef, causing an imbalance. A popular example is the Roi (Peacock Grouper). Not only did it lack predators in it's new Hawaiian waters, but it began to retain Ciguitara, which is toxic when ingested in large dosages. Without being harvested for food, the Roi multiplied and began damaging our fragile ecobalance. Spearfishing is one of the only methods to remove dangerous invasive species like the Roi. For every one Roi removed from the reef, 150 other reef fish are saved.
Spearfishing is also the most selective method of fishing. Each shot brings in just one fish.
And each fish was specifically selected by the diver who studied the size and type of fish before even considering the shot. Net fishing often catches an abundant amount of fish and sometimes the wrong kind and size. Pole fishing also lacks the ability to see the catch before hooking it.
Spearfishing helps protect fish that are too small and targets specific species that can be consumed. We believe every shot should be purposeful, to protect the reef and feed your ohana. Check out our recipe page for tasty tips for cooking your catch!
ANY RESTRICTIONS ON WHO CAN JOIN?
We do have a few restrictions:
- Ages 13 and up only
- Those who are pregnant should not join this excursion
- Pre-existing heart conditions or ANY health concerns that may be related to snorkeling or freediving should participate. PLEASE make sure you are cleared by your doctor to freedive or participate in a strenuous activity before signing up
Spearfish in Maui FAQ
CAN I RENT SPEARFISHING EQUIPMENT?
Although renting spearfishing equipment may seem like the simple route to learning spearfishing, it can increase unnecessary risk for you. To give you the best spearfishing experience, we recommend going on an excursion with us. We teach safe freediving techniques, gun handling and also the correct fish to target. Don't miss out, book an excursion today!
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY SPEARFISHING EXCURSION?
Spearfishing is a real sport! Unless you are an advanced freediver or spearfisherman, you should come with an attitude to learn. Your guides are the best trained, most experienced local freedivers and spearfishermen available. While we often are able to find good opportunities for our customers to take quality shots at quality fish, it's still fishing. There are no garuantees with hunting, and that's what makes it so addicting! We can guarantee a great time with great guides, excellent instruction and we'll do our best to be as lucky as we can be!
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE EXCURSION?
What to bring:
- Bathing suits
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Snacks or drinks are optional but come hydrated.
- For a better mask seal, consider shaving the upper lip area.
- 10-20% tip is customary if you enjoy your guides, please consider showing your appreciation through tips.
- Fishing license (purchased online the night before). Simple link provided in your booking confirmation email.
The gear provided:
- Upper-body wetsuit
- Basic snorkel mask and fins (basic but quality)
- Weight belt
- Spears and floats. (Only the diver activley diving will be using the spear. There's no need for all customers to swim around with loaded spearguns. It's not safe and absolutely hurts our odds of success.)
- Due to permitting, we are currently operating on West Maui alongside of Maui Spearfishing Academy. At our meeting site, we offer some higher-end optional upgrades such as Full-body Spearfishing wetsuits and Fiberglass freedive fins. A fun additional experience for customers to consider!