Best Spearfishing Float: Top 3 Picks That Work 🎯
Stop losing fish and gear! I’ve tested dozens of floats, and these 3 are the only ones I trust with my life underwater.
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Look, I’ve been spearfishing for over 12 years now, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen divers lose expensive gear or worse – put themselves in danger – because they cheaped out on their float. Just last month, my buddy Jake watched his $400 speargun disappear into 80 feet of water when his bargain float decided to take a dive of its own.
That’s why finding the best spearfishing float isn’t just about convenience – it’s literally about safety and keeping your hard-earned cash in your pocket. After testing over 20 different float setups in everything from shallow reef dives to deep blue water hunts, I’ve narrowed it down to these 3 absolute winners.
These aren’t just random picks either. Each of these spearfishing floats has saved my butt in different situations, and honestly, I wouldn’t dive without them. Let’s dive in (pun totally intended) and find your perfect match!
Quick Comparison: The Top 3 Spearfishing Floats
Here’s the no-BS breakdown of the floats that actually matter:
Deep Dive Reviews: The 3 Best Spearfishing Floats That Actually Work
1. Neptonics Torpedo Float – The Bulletproof Beast
Okay, real talk – this thing is built like a tank. I’ve had mine for 3 years now, and it’s been dragged across coral, dropped on boat decks, and even run over by a zodiac (don’t ask). Still looks brand new.
The Neptonics Torpedo float shines in deep water scenarios. When you’re hunting pelagics at 80+ feet, you need something that won’t fail you. The hydrodynamic design cuts through currents like butter, and the bright orange color is visible from a mile away – trust me, boat captains love you for this.
- Indestructible hard shell construction
- Perfect for bluewater and deep diving
- Streamlined design reduces drag
- Comes with quality hardware included
2. JBL Breakdown Float – The Travel Warrior
Here’s the thing about travel – airlines hate spearos. But the JBL breakdown float has saved my trips more times than I can count. This bad boy packs down to the size of a small towel, and at $45, it won’t break your gear budget.
Don’t let the inflatable design fool you – this isn’t some pool toy. The reinforced seams and military-grade material have handled everything I’ve thrown at them. Plus, when you’re island hopping in places like the Maldives, every inch of luggage space matters.
- International dive trips
- Limited storage situations
- Budget-conscious divers
- Shore diving adventures
3. Rob Allen Foam Float – The Versatile Champion
If you could only own one spearfishing float, this would be it. The Rob Allen foam design hits that sweet spot between durability and functionality. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of floats – does everything pretty darn well.
What makes this float special is the hybrid foam construction. It’s unsinkable (literally – I’ve tested this), comfortable to grab when you’re exhausted, and the bright colors make it super visible. Plus, Rob Allen’s reputation in the spearfishing world speaks for itself.
- Unsinkable foam core design
- Comfortable grip surface
- Balanced size-to-visibility ratio
- Proven reliability in all conditions
Why Every Spearo Needs a Proper Float (Lessons from 12 Years Underwater)
Look, I get it. When you’re starting out, a spearfishing float seems like just another piece of gear to buy. But let me share a story that’ll change your mind real quick.
Two years ago, I was diving with a new guy who thought he could skip the float and just use a pool noodle. We’re 40 feet down on a beautiful reef, and he spears a decent grouper. Problem is, the fish dove straight into a cave system. Without a proper float providing surface reference and buoyancy control, he panicked, made a rapid ascent, and ended up with a nasty case of decompression sickness.
Here’s why you absolutely need a quality float:
- Safety First: Surface reference point prevents dangerous ascents
- Gear Protection: Keeps expensive equipment safe and visible
- Fish Management: Secure place to store your catch
- Visibility: Alerts boats to your presence
- Rest Platform: Somewhere to hang when you’re exhausted
- Legal Requirement: Many areas mandate dive floats
Don’t be the diver who learns this lesson the hard way. A good spearfishing float isn’t just gear – it’s your underwater insurance policy.
🛠️ Complete Your Spearfishing Arsenal
A great spearfishing float is just the start. Here’s what the pros pack for serious hunting:
💬 What Fellow Spearos Are Saying
Quick Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Your Perfect Float
After helping hundreds of divers pick their gear, here are the key factors that actually matter:
🌊 Consider Your Diving Environment
Shore diving? Go lightweight. Boat diving in rough seas? You need heavy-duty. Deep blue water? Visibility is king.
🐟 Think About Target Fish
Hunting small reef fish? A compact float works. Going after pelagics? You need serious buoyancy and storage.
✈️ Factor in Travel Needs
Flying frequently? Inflatable saves space. Driving to local spots? Hard shell offers max durability.
💰 Budget Realistically
Don’t cheap out on safety gear, but also don’t overspend on features you won’t use. Find your sweet spot.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the questions I get asked most about choosing the right spearfishing float: