Using Structure

Of all the polespear tricks and methods, I feel that the most important one is the use of structure. While the speargun hunter is usually looking for the free-swimming targets out in the open, the polespear hunter is usually best off poking around the ledges, holes, caves, and other structure that the reef or wreck affords. After seeing the large snapper dart out of a hole and back in, the polespear hunter should swim up behind the hole, ready the spear, and wait for the head to poke out again. Fish are surprisingly curious, and the patient hunter can use this to their advantage. The polespear hunter should learn to drive free-swimming fish towards structure where they can be more easily hunted. This often works with the larger species of hogfish or grouper that won't let you approach close enough in the open. If they can be cornered they make easier targets for the traditional hunter. Also remember that fish usually prefer holes with back doors, so the first shot opportunity on a holed-up fish is often the best opportunity.

Collecting Your Catch

The moments after the hit are where many new polespear hunters lose their prey. Always wear gloves when spearfishing, so you can grab the fish as quickly as you can. Many divers spear the fish then tend to hold on to one end of the spear while the fish thrashes about, which it will do if it wasn't a kill-shot behind the eye. A flailing fish can quickly dislodge a spear, so the key is to immediately grab the fish and subdue it before he shakes loose. Grab it solidly and string or bag your catch quickly.

The Most Important Tip of All

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! The best way to learn spearfishing is by being out there doing it. So take every opportunity you can to go hunting. Even if you're not that good at first, you will get better with time. We look forward to hearing from you once you've bagged your first Foldspear kill!

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