How to Start Spearfishing NOW in California

If you're new to spearfishing, this beginner spearfishing guide covers everything you need to know to get started. I break down beginner spearfishing gear, pole spears vs. spearguns, fins, wetsuits, target species, fishing regulations, and what I recommend buying when you're first learning how to spearfish. Spearfishing can look like an expensive and complicated sport from the outside, but you really don't need a ton of high-end gear when you're starting out. I started with simple equipment, and there are still pieces of my beginner setup that I use today. In this video, we cover: • Beginner spearfishing gear • Pole spears and three-prong spears • Reef spearguns • Pelagic / bluewater spearguns • Plastic vs. fiberglass freediving fins • Neoprene booties • Beginner target species • Southern California reef fish • California MPAs • Fishing licenses and regulations • How to start spearfishing without wasting money on gear you don't need If you're getting into spearfishing in Southern California, you'll also hear me talk about common local species like calico bass, California sheephead, perch, opaleye, yellowtail, and white seabass. Fishing regulations, licensing requirements, seasons, size limits, and protected areas can change, so always check the current regulations for wherever you're diving before you go. CHAPTERS: 0:00 How to Start Spearfishing 1:35 Spearfishing Safety & Buddy Diving 2:53 How to Find Spearfishing Buddies 4:19 Finding a Spearfishing Dive Shop 5:15 Understanding Ocean Conditions 5:55 Beginner Spearfishing Gear 6:33 Mask & Snorkel 7:36 Wetsuits, Weights & Buoyancy 8:36 Spearfishing Gloves 9:15 Pole Spears 10:10 Reef Spearguns 10:40 Pelagic Spearguns 11:33 Spearfishing Fins 12:29 Beginner Target Species 14:12 MPAs & No-Fishing Zones 15:09 Fishing Licenses & Regulations HELPFUL RESOURCES: Freediving Blackout & Rescue Safety Video    • How to Save a Freediver from a Blackout in...   California Ocean Fishing Regulations https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean... California Marine Protected Areas Map https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/... California Fishing License Information https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Fis... Hawaii Nonresident Marine Fishing License https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/licenses-... Hopefully this gives you a solid starting point and gets you in the water. Get out. Try new things. — Hayden