Spearfishing

A mask and snorkel, fins, a wetsuit for our cold water, a hood, a weight belt and weights, gloves, a dive knife, a speargun or polespear, and a valid California fishing license.

Local water ranges from the low 50s to the upper 60s (°F) depending on the season. Open-cell freediving suits are the warmest for their thickness. A 5mm two-piece with an attached hood works for most of the year. Go 7mm for winter and spring, if you run cold, or if you are scuba diving, and 3mm for warm late-summer days. Camo patterns help you blend in while hunting.

You want to be neutrally buoyant at roughly 5 feet, depending on how deep you usually dive. Never overweight yourself; it makes getting to the surface harder and increases risk. The general rule is 7% of your body weight for a surf wetsuit and 10% for a 5mm suit. We are happy to help you dial in your weighting.

Yes. A freediving course teaches breath-hold technique, equalization, safe diving practices, rescue skills, and how to prevent shallow water blackout. Blue Water Hunter offers a freediving course for divers ages 13 and up. Whatever your level, never dive alone. Always dive with a buddy using the "one up, one down" system.

Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid California sport fishing license, available through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

No. In California, spiny lobster may only be taken by hand. You will also need a Lobster Report Card in addition to your fishing license.

Yes. Take is restricted or prohibited in many Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), including several around the Channel Islands. Some species, such as giant sea bass and garibaldi, are fully protected, and others have size and bag limits. Always check current CDFW regulations and MPA maps before you dive.