How To Get Started Spearfishing In Sydney
Sydney is home to over 5 million people, the majority of which have no idea about the amazing marine environment right on their doorstep. Spearfishing in Sydney is a fantastic activity that, if practiced correctly, is safe, sustainable, and a super addictive way to get fresh seafood. So how do youget started spearfishing in Sydney?
There is an abundance of tasty seafood to target off Sydney, including bream, kingfish, drummer, red rock cod, dolphinfish, sea urchins, abalone, and much more. And the best part is, you don't even need a boat.
Join Your Local Spearfishing Clubs
It can all seem a little intimidating at first, but there are plenty of spearos in Sydney willing to show a newcomer the ropes. The best way to get started is to visit your local spearfishing club. There are over seven Sydney-based clubs that hold monthly meetings. Your best bet is to find one in your local area and pop into a meeting to see what it's all about.
Visit The Adreno Store
Alternatively, you can visit the Adreno store in Mascot. There isn't much to do with spearfishing that isn't sold there, and you can get hands-on experience with all the different gear. Adreno’s experienced staff will be able to help you out and point you in the right direction. Chances are, you'll probably meet other keen spearos there.
Things To Consider Before Starting Spearfishing
Safety
There are a few very important things to consider when starting spearfishing, and number one is safety. There are a few risks involved in spearfishing, including shallow water blackout, boat traffic, dangerous marine creatures, and currents, just to name a few. Taking an accredited spearfishing and freediving class is highly recommended so that you’ll know the different safety procedures and proper techniques when working underwater.
Local restrictions
Secondly, there are severalareas and species that are off limits to spearfishing. The most common protected species you'll come across is likely going to be a blue groper. When blue, they are easy to distinguish. But be aware because smaller gropers can come in a variety of colours, such as brown, yellow, and a dark orange, and they are all protected.
Some protected areas can include all inland waters, some estuaries and every beach, except for the last 20 meters at each end. You can only spearfish whilst freediving, and catch crays with your hands. It is also legal to use a torch whilst spearfishing in New South Wales. You also have to keep 50 meters away from other swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and fishermen.
If you want to fish in New South Wales, you'll have to purchase a current New South Wales fishing license. If you want to go spearing in an unfamiliar area, make sure you check with the New South Wales DPI website and the marine parks authority, to make sure there's no restrictions that may apply. Here’s a fantasticfree guide to spearfishing in New South Wales that covers all of this in great detail.
To summarize, Sydney is a great place to start spearfishing, with easy access to a lot of sheltered areas, lots of tasty and challenging species for divers of all skill levels, and a lifetime of amazing experiences.
