Spearfishing is a method of fishing where the person dives in the ocean and hunts fish with the aid of a speargun and various other equipment. Spearfishing mostly occurs while freediving on Apnea (breath hold) however it can occur whilst on Scuba although it is illegal in all states except WA.

Spearfishing is the most effective, environmentally friendly, selective form of fishing as:
• There is no by-catch or unintended catch of undesirable species, the same cant be said about the Commercial fishing industry
• No rubbish left behind or major environmental impact, i.e. fishing lines, sinkers, hooks left behind etc
• The diver targets a fish in a one on one dual in its own environment

Positives

• Fresh seafood
• Not supporting the damaging commercial fishing industry
• Success when the fish aren’t ‘on the bite’
• Building fitness
• Mateship

Negatives

Spearfishing also has its inherited risks and is a sport where the hunter can become the hunted.

• Shark attack, sting rays and Jelly fish
• Drowning and Blackout due to lack of oxygen to brain, being stuck under a reef etc
• Being hit by unaware boat skippers

Because of these risks, WAUC encourage safe diving in pairs and no risk taking or dangerous diving practices.