When it comes to unbeatable angling action, we all know that Florida is up there with the best of ’em. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, with plenty of rivers and lakes dotted throughout the mainland, there’s a reason why this state has made a name for itself as a sportfishing paradise. If you’re looking for something a little different, though, why not try out the spearfishing Florida has to offer?
If you’ve never been spearfishing before, think of it like this: it’s a whole new way of exploring what lies beneath the waves, and allows you to get up close and personal with your target fish. There’s a primal aspect to it that, if you let it, can definitely ignite your hunter’s instincts. And with access to such incredible fisheries, Florida is the perfect place to start your adventure!
What does spearfishing in Florida look like?
First things first, you probably want to know what kind of waters you can spearfish in. Throughout Florida, no matter which area you choose to fish in, you’ll only be able to target saltwater species. The state is surrounded by plentiful saltwater fisheries, though, so this doesn’t limit the angling action you can partake in!
Although some anglers choose to go it alone, the most common way to spearfish here is by joining a licensed, experienced local guide onboard their charter service. You’ll be given plenty of advice and support that’s invaluable, especially if you’re a first-timer. Here’s what you can expect when spearfishing in Florida:
- Spearing from the surface. Although we’re all used to seeing photos of spearfishers deep diving beneath the waves, when you’re just starting out, you’ll likely hunt your target species from the surface of the water. From there, you’ll progress to mid-level and bottom diving.
- Learning how to dive. Most anglers choose to freedive or snorkel in order to hit their spearfishing goals. However, unlike a lot of other places, Florida allows spearos to use scuba gear when spearfishing. A chunk of your trip will involve practising your chosen diving method.
- Choosing your fishery. Aim for clean water when possible. The dirtier the water, the spookier the fish! If the water’s rough, make shallow dives beneath the surface – this will prevent water flooding your mask.
- Picking the perfect equipment. We’ve covered the gear you’ll need in more depth below, but something important to know is that you should match your spearing equipment to the fish species you’re trying to target. To put it simply, the bigger your target fish, the bigger your speargun should be!
What can I catch when spearfishing in Florida?
Snappers and Groupers
As the majority of Florida’s spearfishing action takes place around reefs and other underwater structure, it only makes sense that these bottom-dwelling fish top the list of our favorite targets. They’re tasty, can grow to impressive sizes, and are found all around the Sunshine State. These fish also love dwelling darting in and out of structure, providing plenty of fun when you’re trying to spear them!
You’ll usually be bottom diving or mid-level diving in pursuit of these fish, with popular target species being Mutton, Yellowtail, Mangrove Snapper, and Red Snapper, as well as Gag, Black, and Reg Grouper. The only Grouper species you can’t go after with a spear are Goliath and Nassau varieties. If you’re fishing with a charter, your captain will be able to guide you and make sure you’re targeting legally-available fish only.
Wahoo and Mahi Mahi
When summertime hits Florida, especially around the Keys, there’s one fish that makes its way to the top of the list for spearos – the eye-catching Mahi Mahi! This fish isn’t just suited for rods and reels – it provides plenty of underwater action for keen spearfishers, too. Similarly, the speedy Wahoo can be found wherever the Mahi lurks. If you’re looking for a fast-paced spearfishing adventure, these fish will give it to you in spades!
Mahi Mahi and Wahoo are generally found in shallower parts of the water column, which means you’ll be able to target them without scuba gear. You can grab your gun or pole, mask, and fins, and be ready to do battle. When choosing your diving spot, look out for surface area with plenty of weeds and debris, as well as birds circling. These are all good signs that Mahi and Wahoo are somewhere close.
Cobia and Amberjack
These two fish like to spend most of their time lurking around reefs and wrecks, making them perfect spearfishing targets. They’re also bullish, hard-fighting, and tasty! If you’re looking to kick your spearing skills up a notch, then going after these guys is a great way to test yourself. Nothing quite compares to taming one of these fish!
Seeing as these fish are tough and can grow to pretty large sizes, you’ll want to opt for a stronger speargun. You’ll usually be focusing your attention around Florida’s many reefs, which require mid-level or bottom diving skills.
And Plenty More!
Of course, these aren’t the only species you can target on your spearfishing trip. If you’re fishing around the Keys, you’ll likely be going after a local favorite – the weird and wonderful Hogfish. This guy can only be found in this part of Florida and likes to congregate in the shallows, making him the perfect fish for newbies. Along the East Coast, Kingfish are a much-loved target, usually found alongside Mahi Mahi and Wahoo.
If you’re sticking to the reefs, Tuna are also a popular target, with Yellowfin and Blackfin being at the top of the list. There are also some invasive species that are great fun to target with a spear, so you can do the local ecosystem a favor, too! Lionfish are common, but you may also encounter the more elusive Scorpionfish. Just make sure you discuss spearing ’em with your guide first, as they can be poisonous.
Are there any species I can’t spearfish for?
Good question! The answer is a resounding “yes.” When spearfishing in Florida, you should avoid going after the following species, as targeting them with this technique is strongly prohibited:
- Billfish (all species)
- Spotted Eagle Ray
- Sturgeon
- Manta Ray
- Sharks
- Bonefish
- Tarpon
- Goliath Grouper
- Snook
- Blue Crab
- Nassau Grouper
- Spotted Seatrout
- Redfish
- Weakfish
- Stone Crab
- Pompano
- Permit
- Tripletail
- Lobster
What are the top spearfishing spots in Florida?
The Keys
If there’s a jewel in the crown of Florida’s spearfishing scene, it has to be the Keys! This collection of islands is surrounded by the warm waters of the Gulf on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. The Keys are also located at the US’s southernmost point, meaning that there’s tropical weather year-round. It’s an unbeatable combination – especially if you’re planning to spend most of your time beneath the waves!
Hit the reefs all around the Keys and you’ll see the world beneath come to life with shining Snappers, radiant Hogfish, and tasty Groupers. Are you an experienced diver looking for a challenge? Hop on a boat ride that’ll take you 10–20 miles offshore from Key West, the area’s number one departure point. Here, you’ll hit the Florida Strait, which is home to enormous Tuna, eye-catching Mahi Mahi, and many other hard-hitting fish.
The Panhandle
Perhaps most famous throughout the angling world as being home to Destin, the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” it’s no surprise that the Panhandle also boasts some pretty incredible spearfishing action. This stretch of coastline is perfectly positioned along the northern part of the Gulf of Mexico, which is dotted with plenty of reefs perfect for budding spearfishers to explore.
Also known as the Emerald Coast, there’s exciting inshore waters and productive reefs in the Gulf to explore here. Take a spearfishing charter out of Pensacola, Panama City, Destin, or any other popular resort town nearby, and get ready to dive into the water, where you’ll find Snappers, Groupers, Triggerfish, and many more delicious creatures.
The East Coast
Florida’s East Coast boasts a huge number of famous locations. It’s home to the Space Coast, the Gold Coast, and the Bay of Biscayne, all of which hold excellent angling opportunities. There’s no shortage of spearfishing opportunities, either!
From Daytona and Port Orange, you’ll be able to hit the shallows of the Intracoastal Waterway as well as some productive reefs nearshore. A trip out of Miami will have you exploring shallower bays, which stay warm year round, as well as the ocean. You’ll have the chance to come face-to-gills with Cobia, Wahoo, Tuna varieties, and Mahi Mahi, among others.
The Suncoast
If you’re looking for diversity, head straight to the Suncoast. You’ll find a huge range of fish off of Florida’s west coast! You’ll have the chance to hunt the bays or the Gulf itself for some famous fish species. To give you some insight, local spearfishing guides will take you in search of Flounder, Sheepshead, and Snappers inshore, or Cobia, Kingfish, and Amberjack along the reefs.
Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor are particularly popular areas for spearfishing trips in Florida, with Naples also offering plenty of options. Any of these locations will provide access to fish-filled waters, and you’ll find plenty of guides waiting to take you out to discover what lies beneath them.
What gear do I need to go spearfishing?
- Speargun or pole spear. If you’re a new spearo, a pole spear is probably the best choice, as it’s easier to use and a lot cheaper than a speargun. If you go for the gun, make sure you take into consideration the visibility of your chosen fishery and the size of the species you’ll be targeting.
- Wetsuit/rash guard. When spearfishing in Florida, you’ll be diving in a warm climate. It’s recommended that you opt for a suit around 1.5mm thick, unless you know you’ll be diving in deeper, cold waters.
- Mask and snorkel. Opt for a mask that allows much less air in and reduces the pressure that you have to deal with when you head underwater. You’ll also want a mask that allows for decent visibility.
- Gloves. When spearfishing, you’ll be using your hands, whether you’re reloading your gun or grabbing onto speared fish. Gloves that are lightweight but sturdy are a must.
- Fins. If you’re going to be freediving, fins are necessary, as they help you travel seamlessly and conserve your energy as you dive deeper into the water. For beginners, good-quality plastic fins will do the job.
- Weight belt. These make sure you don’t float to the surface when going after your target prey beneath the waves. A high-quality belt that compresses and expands along with your wetsuit means you don’t have to adjust it during ascent and descent.
- Spearfishing knife. This will let you cut weeds and fishing lines when underwater.
- Floatlines/floats/reels. When you’ve speared your target, it still might choose to swim in the other direction. When this happens, you’ll want to have already attached a floatline to your speargun so you can pull the fish and your gun. Similarly, you can also use a reel to bring your fish in once you’ve reached the surface.
Do I need a special license to spearfish in Florida?
No, you don’t. You just need a regular saltwater fishing license, which you can purchase on the FWC website. If you’re fishing on board a charter, they’ll provide the license for you. However, there are some additional rules you have to look out for. For example, it’s important to know that you cannot spearfish:
- For marine and freshwater species in freshwater. Possession of a spear gun in or on freshwater is also prohibited.
- Within 100 yards of a public swimming beach, a commercial or public fishing pier, or part of a bridge from which public fishing is allowed.
- Within 100 feet of any part of a jetty that is above the surface of the sea (an exception is the last 500 yards of a jetty that extends more than 1,500 yards from the shoreline).
- In Monroe County from Long Key to the Dade County line.
- For any fish for which spearing is prohibited by law.
- In any body of water under the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection, Recreation and Parks. Possession of spearfishing equipment is prohibited in these areas.
- In Volusia County except for Flounder and Sheepshead.
Spearfishing in Florida: See a Whole New Side of This State!
Whether you’re an experienced angler who wants to fish in a new way, or are just starting out on your journey, spearfishing in Florida offers up plenty of excitement and action! You’ll get to see things from a different perspective, and will join your target species in their own stomping grounds. What could be more fun than that? It’s time to grab your speargun of choice and discover what lies beneath Florida’s magical waters…
Have you ever been spearfishing in Florida before? Any tips, tricks, or stories to share with us? Get in touch in the comments below!
