When you’re in the mood for a different kind of adventure, the spearfishing Orange County has to offer is a very good place to start. With plenty of waterways to choose from and even more fish to hunt, this part of SoCal is a mecca for spearos, both novice and experienced.
What to Expect
If you’ve never been fishing before, but you’d like to give it a try, the best thing to do is turn to pros who will know exactly where to take you. It’s usually recommended to start in waters up to 10 feet deep, with a sandy bottom where fish like to hide and feed.
The main rule of spearfishing in California is simple: Don’t shoot what you don’t plan to eat. Spearos take pride in their fishing discipline being very environment-friendly, so they won’t shoot a fish unless they plan on putting it on the table later. The good news, there are plenty of delicious fish to choose from.
Various species of Bass (Calico, Sand, Spotted), Perch, and California Sheephead should be at the top of your list. If you want to go to deeper waters and test your skills in the big leagues, you can target Yellowtail, Barracuda, Halibut, and White Seabass.
How to Prepare
There are fishing charters that will take you spearfishing, but you’ll need to bring a valid fishing license, as well as your own spearfishing equipment, which includes a mask, snorkel, fins, and a spearfishing gun.
When you decide to try the spearfishing Orange County has, it’s crucial to be familiar with the rules and regulations. All that’s left to do then is put your underwater hunting skills into action!