The spearfishing Australia has available will keep any spearo busy on their vacation. Due to warm waters and good visibility, spearfishing is growing as a sport down under. This is also one of the most eco-friendly forms of fishing, due to less pollution and fishing equipment being left behind, no by-catch, and only catching what you intend to eat.
As well as the spearos being eco-friendly, the Australian authorities have regulated their underwater activities, so there are strict rules on catch limit and where you can spearfish. This means bountiful fishing for those who want to go face-to-face in an underwater dual with the species that call these waters home.
What to Catch
Depending on where in Australia you go will majorly change what you’re able to catch. Northern and southern species differ, as well as species found in the reefs and offshore. On the reefs, species you’re likely to encounter include Snapper, Bream, Coral Trout, Parrotfish, Leatherjackets, Morwong, and plenty more. Offshore, for the spearos with some serious skills, target Sailfish, Wahoo, Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel, Yellowtail Kingfish, and many more.
Protected Species
You must be aware of species that are protected by law in Australia. These include Great White Shark, Grey Nurse Shark, Blue Groper, and many more. As a conscientious spearo, please inform the authorities when you sight these fish on any given trip.
Where to Go
Top places include reefs, offshore islands, shipwrecks, fish aggregating devices (FADs) and out in the bluewater. Spearfishing is not allowed in coastal lagoons, estuaries, marine parks, or within aquatic reserves. Regulations vary in different parts of Australia, so make sure you’re up to date with current rules in the area where you’re spearfishing.
Western Australia
Exmouth is one of the best places to go spearfishing in Western Australia. You don’t even need to travel far out, as fishing from the shore is allowed in most areas. Target Mangrove Jack, Trevally, Mackerel, Parrotfish, and more. Avoid Sharks by using a shark shield, especially during the summer when they come closer in to benefit from the turtle breeding season.
Northern Territory
In the Northern Territory, head to Darwin for Longnose Emperor, Mangrove Jack, Red Emperor, and Black Jewfish. Due to the proximity of the fishing spots to the shore, Sharks are less of a problem here – unfortunately, they are replaced by crocodiles instead! Stick to populated areas and they shouldn’t bother you too much. Although you’ll be spearing close to shore, this is not the perfect place for beginners, as the visibility is regularly under 5 meters.
South Australia
Around Adelaide, you’ll find some top spearfishing spots, such as Gull Rock. There are plenty of reef ledges here, where you’ll encounter Australian Salmon, Abalone, Crayfish, Rock Cod, Snook, and more.
Queensland
This is where hiring a charter for the day will really pay off. From Cairns, you can head to the reefs to spear Trevally, Nannygai, Trout, Parrotfish, Mackerel, and more. The waters are warm here, so the species are diverse.
New South Wales
There are 75 top spearfishing locales to discover in New South Wales. Head to Eden for Bream, Luderick, Leatherjacket, and Ling. An annual spearfishing competition is held here, but be warned – these waters are much cooler than up north, so pack a thicker wetsuit.
Victoria
For some of the coldest waters around Australia, come to Victoria to spearfish. Known for top shore-diving spots, this is a great area for beginners. Head to Port Phillip Bay for your choice of spots.
How to Fish
In each state, you’ll find the rules and regulations change slightly. However, when spearfishing in Australia, these are the top tips to making the most of your time in the water:
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Always wear the appropriate wetsuit thickness for the waters you’re in. The north is much warmer than the south, where a 7 mm wetsuit is essential. These suits should cover your whole body, to help keep you warm and safe from the poisonous and dangerous sea-life you could encounter.
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Due to the predators that call these water home, do not tether your catch to your body! This is just a free meal for Sharks and puts you in harms way.
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Stay in the know and keep an eye on the weather, currents, and local species that are off limits. Remember, fishing after rainfall will not be a productive dive!
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Stay savvy – keep a knife accessible to both hands, and have a shark shield in place when spearing in most of Australia’s waters. These two pieces of equipment could save your life. Buying gear specifically designed for spearos will not only help improve your trip, but will stop you from being weighed down – light gear is best.
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You’ll need to be able to freedive, as scuba diving is illegal in all states apart from Western Australia. Have no fear, there are plenty of spaces close to shore that are perfect for beginners.
When to Go
Spring and summer are the top seasons for heading to Oz. In the southern hemisphere, this is from November to April.
When spearfishing Australia’s coast, you’ll be kept busy with the multitude of species under the water. Stay safe and you’ll have an incredible adventure that will leave you longing for more.
