Best Spearfishing Gear for Beginners: 7 Must-Haves for Success
Diving into spearfishing? Discover the best spearfishing gear for beginners that balances quality, affordability, and safety for your underwater hunting adventures.
So you’ve decided to take the plunge into the incredible world of spearfishing? Welcome to the club! I still remember my first dive with a speargun in hand – equal parts terrifying and exhilarating.
Finding the best spearfishing gear for beginners can be overwhelming with so many options out there. Personally, before buying tools, I think about safety first, as our field does not accept mistakes.
Table of Contents
- Why the Right Gear Matters
- 7 Essential Pieces of Beginner Spearfishing Equipment
- Mask & Snorkel: Your Window to the Underwater World
- Fins: Your Underwater Engine
- Wetsuit: Protection & Buoyancy
- Spearguns: Choosing Your First Underwater Weapon
- Dive Knife: Safety First
- Weight Belt: Perfect Buoyancy Control
- Float & Float Line: Surface Support System
- Budget Considerations
- Where to Buy Your Starter Spearfishing Kit
- Caring for Your New Gear
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why the Right Gear Matters
Let’s get something straight right off the bat – while you don’t need top-of-the-line equipment as a beginner, skimping on certain items is a fast track to frustration (or worse, danger).
The right beginner spearfishing setup strikes that perfect balance between affordability and functionality.
I learned this lesson the hard way when I bought a cheap mask that constantly leaked and fogged up. Nothing kills the excitement of your first hunt faster than spending the whole time clearing your mask instead of spotting fish!
Good gear doesn’t just improve your experience, it keeps you safe. And safety underwater is non-negotiable, especially when you’re holding a loaded speargun. (Yep, been there too… stories for another time!)
7 Essential Pieces of Beginner Spearfishing Equipment
Before we dive deep into each item, here’s your shopping list for the best spearfishing gear for beginners. So consider this your starter pack and the absolute must-have before you even think about hitting the water:
- Mask & Snorkel
- Fins (Preferably Long Blade)
- Wetsuit (Appropriate thickness for your water temp)
- Speargun (Beginner-friendly size)
- Dive Knife
- Weight Belt & Weights
- Float & Float Line
Now, let’s divide each section so that you understand what precisely you need to look for. I’ll share what features matter most for beginners and which “premium” features you can ignore until you’re more experienced.
Not sure what’s *actually* necessary and what’s just hype? We’ve compiled a brutally honest list of essential vs. unnecessary spearfishing gear so you don’t waste money on items you’ll never use.
Mask & Snorkel: Your Window to the Underwater World 👓
Your mask isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s literally how you see the underwater world. A poor-fitting mask will ruin your experience faster than anything else. When selecting a mask for beginner underwater hunting, focus on fit above all else.
Here’s my tried-and-true mask test: place the mask against your face without the strap, inhale slightly through your nose, and let go. A good-fitting mask will stay on your face for a few seconds. If it drops immediately, keep looking! 🧪
Low-volume masks are ideal for spearfishing as they’re easier to equalize and clear. My recommendation for beginners is the Cressi Superocchio – affordable, durable, and available in various fits for different face shapes.
For snorkels, simpler is better! Avoid fancy “dry” snorkels with complicated valves that can fail. A basic J-tube snorkel with a comfortable mouthpiece is all you need. You’ll often ditch it anyway when diving down for a shot.
Fins: Your Underwater Engine
If there’s one place to invest a bit more as a beginner, it’s your fins. They’re your power source underwater, and the difference between good and bad fins is like comparing a sports car to a bicycle. So, for the best spearfishing gear for beginners, look for longer blade fins designed specifically for freediving/spearfishing.
Avoid scuba or recreational snorkeling fins; they’re too short and stiff for the efficient kicks needed in spearfishing. You want fins that give you power without excessive leg strain. Remember, tired legs = shorter dives = fewer opportunities for shots!
Closed-heel fins with booties are more versatile for beginners than full-foot fins. They are more protective on rocky coastlines and can be utilized in differing water temperatures through varying bootie thickness.
For beginners on a budget, Mako Freediving Fins or Cressi Gara fins offer excellent value. They’ll give you enough power without breaking the bank at around $90-120. Your future self will thank you for not cheating out here! 💸.
Wetsuit: Protection & Buoyancy
Your wetsuit serves triple duty: thermal protection, buoyancy control, and skin protection from scrapes, stings, and sunburn. When choosing a wetsuit for entry-level spearfishing, consider your local water temperature first and foremost.
So for tropical waters (75°F+): A 1.5-3mm suit or even just a Lycra skin.
And for temperate waters (65-75°F): Look at 3-5mm options.
And in the colder waters (below 65°F): You’ll need 5-7mm with possibly a hood.
Spearfishing-specific wetsuits have reinforced chest pads (for loading your gun), camouflage patterns, and often an open-cell interior for better insulation. That said, as a beginner, a standard freediving wetsuit will work perfectly fine to start.
Pro tip: Try before you buy if possible! A wetsuit should fit snugly but not be restrictive. You should barely be able to pinch the neoprene on your torso when it’s zipped up. Too loose = water flushing in and out (brrr!); too tight = restricted breathing and movement.
Decent starter options include the Salvimar N.A.T. 3.5mm or the Beuchat Mundial wetsuits, both offering good value around the $200 mark. As you progress, you might want to upgrade to an open-cell interior model for better heat retention.
Spearguns: Choosing Your First Underwater Weapon
Not at all! We’re still talking about the excitement here. Your speargun is central to the whole operation, but you don’t need anything fancy as a beginner. The best spearfishing gear for beginners is a modestly sized wood or plastic gun.
For your first gun, a 75-90cm (30-35 inch) model strikes the perfect balance between maneuverability and range. Shorter guns are easier to aim and reload, crucial skills you need to master before moving to bigger guns. Believe me, nothing is more terrible than having to reload in choppy water! 😤
Wood guns like the Rob Allen Teak or Riffe Euro series are fantastic but pricier. For budget-conscious beginners, look at the Mako Predator or Cressi Comanche. These will serve you well until you develop preferences based on your hunting style.
Stick with a single band to start, it’s easier to load and provides enough power for most small to medium fish within the beginner range. You can always add a second band later as your loading technique and strength improve.
Whatever you choose, make sure it includes a reel or line attachment point. You’ll want to connect your speargun to your float line for safety and to prevent losing your gear (or worse, creating a hazardous floating weapon if you drop it).
Dive Knife: Safety First
A dive knife isn’t for Rambo-style underwater combat with sharks (despite what movies might suggest). It is an absolute must-have safety equipment for novice spearfishing enthusiasts. You’ll use it primarily to dispatch fish humanely, cut yourself free from entanglements, or signal your buddy in emergencies.
Look for corrosion-resistant materials like titanium or stainless steel with a blunt tip. A blade length of 3-4 inches is perfect for beginners, long enough to be useful but not unwieldy. The OMER Laser knife or the Cressi Skorpion are solid starter options.
Mount your knife somewhere easily accessible with either hand. Most freedivers prefer a lower leg mount as it keeps the knife out of the way during swimming, but still within easy reach. And always secure it with a quick-release mechanism, you don’t want to be fumbling with complicated clips in an emergency!
Pro tip: Rinse your knife in fresh water after every dive and occasionally apply a drop of silicone oil to prevent seizing. A knife that won’t unsheath underwater is just dead weight. Trust me, I’ve been there at the worst possible time! 🔒
Weight Belt: Perfect Buoyancy Control
Getting your weights right is one of the trickiest aspects for beginners in starter underwater hunting. Too much weight and you’ll waste energy fighting excessive negative buoyancy; too little and you’ll struggle to dive below the surface at all!
Start with a basic nylon weight belt with a quick-release buckle. The quick-release feature is non-negotiable for safety; you need to be able to ditch your weights instantly in an emergency. The Beuchat Marseillaise or Rob Allen rubber weight belts are excellent choices.
As for how much weight to use, a general starting point is about 10% of your body weight, adjusted for your wetsuit thickness. But this varies greatly based on your body composition, wetsuit, and water salinity. The perfect weight setup lets you float comfortably at eye level with empty lungs.
I recommend starting a bit lighter and gradually adding weight until you find your sweet spot. You can always add weight, but fighting excessive negative buoyancy can lead to panic situations underwater.
Float & Float Line: Surface Support System
A float and float line might seem optional to absolute beginners, but trust me, it’s an essential part of the best spearfishing gear for beginners. Your float serves multiple critical functions: it marks your position to boats, holds your catch, gives you a rest point, and secures your gear.
For beginners, a simple torpedo-style float like the Rob Allen 15L or Mako inflatable float works perfectly. Avoid tiny floats that get pulled underwater easily. You want something visible with enough buoyancy to support your catch.
Your float line should be at least 15m (50ft) long to give you a decent diving range. Dyneema or monofilament lines are ideal as they’re strong yet low-drag. Always attach your float line to your weight belt (never your body) via a quick-release mechanism for safety.
Pro tip from someone who learned the hard way: Flag your float! In many areas, it’s legally required to have a dive flag, but even where it’s not, a high-visibility flag makes you much more visible to passing boats. A little investment can save your life!
Budget Considerations
Let’s talk money because I know affordable spearfishing equipment is a priority for most beginners. A complete starter setup can range from $500 on the budget end to $1500+ for higher-quality equipment. Here’s how I recommend allocating your budget:
Speargun
100$-400$
I recommend a tube 75 cm tall
Weight Belt & Weights
$20-100$
Knife
$20-80$
Float & Line
$30-$150
light
$40-$200
gloves
$10-$100
socks
$8-$60
So if you’re curious how much you need to spend on gear, check out our full guide on the best spearfishing gear for every budget. Whether you’re ballin’ on a budget or ready to go premium, it breaks it all down.
But if your budget is tight, prioritize your mask and fins; these affect your comfort and efficiency the most. You can find decent used equipment for other items, but I wouldn’t buy a used mask (hygiene) or wetsuit (stretching issues) unless you trust the source.
Remember, it’s better to start with fewer quality items than a complete set of junk that will frustrate you and need replacing soon. Expand your kit gradually as you gain experience and develop preferences. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a good spearfishing kit!
Thinking about going cheap or splurging on your gear? Here’s a breakdown of affordable vs premium spearfishing gear, the real pros and cons, no sugarcoating.
Where to Buy Your Starter Spearfishing Kit
Finding quality beginner spearfishing supplies can be tricky if you don’t live in a coastal area with dedicated dive shops. Here are my recommended options for getting the best spearfishing gear for beginners:
Local dive shops often provide the best experience you can try the gear on, get personalized advice, and build relationships with experienced staff. Many offer package deals for beginners that can save you money. Not to mention, they’ll frequently share precious local details on entry points and fish behavior!
Online retailers like LeisurePro and Mako Spearguns offer extensive selection and competitive pricing. Just be sure to double-check sizing, especially on wetsuits and masks. Read the sizing guides carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service with questions.
Used gear marketplaces can be treasure troves for certain items. Facebook groups dedicated to spearfishing often have members selling quality used equipment. Just be selective; spearguns, weights, floats, and knives are usually safe to buy used; masks and wetsuits are more personal items that may not be ideal secondhand.
Whatever your source, try to talk with actual spearfishers before purchasing. Online reviews can be helpful, but nothing beats advice from someone who regularly uses the gear in conditions similar to where you’ll be diving.
Before you hit the water, make sure you’re not making these super common beginner gear mistakes; trust me, they can mess up your whole dive.
Caring for Your New Gear
Once you’ve invested in quality spearfishing starter equipment, proper maintenance will extend its life significantly. Here’s my quick-and-dirty guide to keeping your gear in top shape:
After every trip, rinse everything thoroughly with fresh water. Salt residue is the enemy of all dive gear; it corrodes metal parts and degrades rubber and neoprene over time. Don’t be that person who leaves their gear in a salty heap until the next weekend!
For your wetsuit, turn it inside out after rinsing and hang it on a thick hanger in a shaded area. Direct sunlight breaks down neoprene faster than anything else. And while we’re talking, wetsuits never use regular detergents! Special wetsuit shampoos are worth the investment.
Your speargun needs special attention, particularly if it’s wooden. Rinse it thoroughly, occasionally oil the metal parts with a marine-grade lubricant, and inspect all bands and wishbones for wear before each use. For wooden guns, applying a fresh coat of varnish annually keeps them watertight.
Store your gear properly between trips, keep it dry, out of direct sunlight, and preferably in a gear bag. I learned this lesson when I found my $300 wetsuit covered in mildew after storing it damp in my trunk for a week. Don’t be like rookie me!
Your gear’s only as good as the way you take care of it. Don’t skip our complete guide to spearfishing gear maintenance, it’ll save you money and keep your kit working like new.
In conclusion
Finding the best spearfishing gear for beginners doesn’t have to be complicated or break the bank. Focus on comfort, functionality, and safety rather than flashy features or what the pros are using. Remember, even the most expensive gear won’t make up for poor technique; time in the water practicing is your best investment!
Start with the essentials, learn to use them well, and upgrade gradually as your skills improve. The underwater world is waiting, and with the right beginner setup, you’ll be bringing home dinner sooner than you might think. Now get out there and dive in, the fish won’t catch themselves!
Traveling with a speargun
So there is another thing I want to talk about, it is traveling with a speargun (it is not simple). Planning a trip with your Speargun? It’s not as simple as tossing it in your suitcase. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling with spearguns the right (and legal) way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should a complete beginner’s spearfishing setup cost?
Expect to spend between $500 and-1000 for a complete starter kit with decent-quality gear. You could go cheaper with used equipment or budget brands, but I wouldn’t recommend spending less than $400 total if you want gear that won’t frustrate you or need immediate replacing. The quality of the best spearfishing gear for beginners is an investment that pays off in enjoyment and durability.
Do I need a fishing license to go spearfishing?
In most places, yes! Spearfishing typically falls under fishing regulations, requiring at a minimum a standard fishing license. Some areas have specific spearfishing permits or special restrictions. So always check local regulations before diving. Game wardens don’t accept “I didn’t know” as an excuse, and fines can be hefty!.
Is it safe to go spearfishing alone as a beginner?
Hard no! Never, ever spearfish alone, especially as a beginner. Even experienced spearos follow the buddy system. Shallow water blackout is a real risk in freediving, and having someone watching your back is essential. Join local clubs or online groups to find dive buddies; it’s safer, more fun, and you’ll learn faster from others’ experiences.
What’s the best beginner speargun length?
For most beginners, a 75-90cm (30-35 inch) speargun is ideal. It’s short enough to handle easily while learning maneuverability and reloading techniques, yet long enough to take decent shots. Water clarity in your diving area may influence this; clearer water might justify a slightly longer gun, while murky conditions call for shorter models.
How deep should beginners dive when spearfishing?
Start shallow, think 5-15 feet, until your freediving skills and comfort level improve and you get carbon fins, not plastic. Many productive reefs and structures are in relatively shallow water anyway. Focus on technique, controlled breathing, and relaxation before pushing the deeper dives. With practice and proper training, you’ll naturally increase your depth range over time.
