Spearfishing Is An Art - Here's Why

Welcome to the latest installment of The Stone Shot. We’re trying something different this week, and we're eager to hear your thoughts. Drop us a line by replying to this email and let us know if you're digging this focused, single-topic approach or if you prefer the variety of our previous, multi-subject editions. Your feedback matters!

The Art: Reading Fish Behavior To Hunt Better

There’s an art to understanding fish behavior and establishing a non-threatening energy underwater. New spearos often have trouble with this. They see a fish, get excited, make a dive with big splashing kicks and head right at their target on the way down. The result? A spooked fish.

An experienced spearfisher knows how to assimilate themselves into the underwater world.

The Variables

Before we talk about the techniques that allow us to read fish behavior and hunt better, let’s talk about the different variables at play here.

1. Type Of Fish - Different species exhibit different behaviors towards divers, ranging from curiosity to wariness. Some are approachable, while others quickly flee from any movement or noise.

2. Time Of Day - Generally speaking, fish tend to be more active around dawn and dusk.

3.  Tide - Tide moves plankton, small fish eat plankton, big fish eat small fish. Additionally, a moving tide dampens the sound of a diver.

4. Water Clarity - The dirtier the water, the harder it is for fish to see you. And vice versa of course.

There are endless variables that effect how fish act, but these are a few of the most important ones.

Two Assumptions We Can make

The first is that open water fish like tuna, billfish, yellowtail, etc., are generally more curious. With the right techniques, you can count on these fish to come check you out and get within shooting range.

The second is that reef fish like snapper, groupers, etc., are generally more skittish. They spook easy and require a more skilled approach to get within range.

There are always exceptions. Aggressive movements can spook blue water fish and some reef fish will be easy to get close to if they feel secure.

That leads us to the 5 most important tips when reading fish behavior….

Tip 1: Become A Fish

We found out last week that blending in underwater is not about wearing some special camo. It’s more about your movements underwater and your ability to keep a non-threatening demeanor. And that’s why this tip is so important.

To do this you must avoid jerky movements. Whether you’re turning your head to scan the area, tracking a fish with your speargun or swimming around a structure looking for fish - you MUST move smoothly and gracefully through the water. Just like a fish does!

Tip 2: Study Your Target Species

Study the behavior and habits of the specific fish species you intend to hunt. Different species exhibit distinct behaviors, and understanding them will help you predict their movements and reactions. 

Tip 3: Don’t Look Them In The Eyes

Once you spot the fish you want to target, look away. Keep an eye on them in your peripheral vision but do not stare directly at the fish. Fish can sense you staring at them. They’ll assume danger and dart for cover.

Additionally, if you have not acquired a target yet, get to the bottom and focus on the sand below you or close your eyes. A sure fire way to keep fish out of range is to stare them down from a distance. A lot of fish will come and check you out if you do not give off predatory vibes.

Tip 4: Be Patient

By waiting calmly and observing, you allow fish to get used to your presence, increasing the chances of getting within shooting range. Patience also allows you to assess the situation and select the right moment for a precise and ethical shot. Rushing can result in missed opportunities and a less successful hunt.

Tip 5: Mind Your Buoyancy

Being weighted correctly will make or break your dive. Too heavy and you’ll be wasting oxygen on your breath up. Too light and you’ll be struggling to stay at depth.

Last But Not Least

Remember that spearfishing is not just about the hunt; it's about becoming one with the underwater world. It's about respecting the creatures that inhabit it and the environment they live in. Reading fish behavior is not just a skill; it's art!

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