Basics of Spearfishing

Question 1

Divers frequently "chum" the water when hunting in blue waters. What purpose does this serve?

Accepted Answer

Fish game in and divert them with it.

Answer

Chumming involves throwing bait into the water to attract fish. In spearfishing, this technique is used to draw target game fish closer to the diver, making them easier to spot and shoot. It also serves to distract the fish, allowing the diver to get into a better position for a shot.

Question 2

Spearfishing calls for acute awareness and in-depth familiarity with the underwater environment. Different abilities are needed in various parts of the world. Why is that so?

Accepted Answer

All of the above.

Answer

Spearfishing requires adaptability due to diverse underwater environments globally. Water temperature affects wetsuit choice and diver comfort, while varying depths necessitate different diving techniques and equipment. Crucially, different regions host unique fish species, each with distinct behaviors and habitats, demanding specific hunting strategies and knowledge from the spearfisher.

Question 3

A school of Yellow Tailed Tuna appears to be feeding in the area where a dedicated spear fisherman is about to dive in. He gives his equipment a routine inspection. What should the diver have because this is a blue water dive and tuna is the main game fish?

Accepted Answer

Knife, mask, fins, snorkel, weight, speargun, float, float line

Answer

For blue water spearfishing, especially for large game like tuna, a comprehensive set of equipment is essential for safety and success. This includes basic freediving gear (mask, fins, snorkel, weights), a speargun for hunting, a knife for safety (e.g., cutting tangled lines), and a float with a float line to mark the diver's position and help retrieve large fish.

Question 4

What is a one shot instant kill known as?

Accepted Answer

Stone Shot

Answer

In spearfishing, a 'stone shot' refers to a perfectly placed shot that instantly kills the fish, often by hitting its brain or spine. This term signifies a humane and efficient kill, minimizing the fish's suffering and preventing it from struggling and potentially damaging the spear or escaping. It is a highly desired outcome for skilled spearfishers.

Question 5

It is recommended to choose a mask for spearfishing that is low volume, has a dull color, and is most significantly comfortable. On the glass of certain masks, there is a dark, mirror hue. Why is that so?

Accepted Answer

It prevents fish from seeing your eyes.

Answer

The primary reason for a dark, mirror hue on spearfishing masks is to conceal the diver's eyes from fish. Direct eye contact can startle fish, making them wary and causing them to flee. By obscuring the eyes, the diver appears less threatening, allowing for a closer approach and a better chance at a successful shot.

Spearfishing Practice Test

Spearfishing Practice Test

Basics of Spearfishing