The minimum age to be able to use a hand spear in most states is 16. However, there are also age limits with regard to how old you need to be in order to procure a license to legally fish in various states. Depending on what state you live in or may be visiting, these minimum ages will vary.
It’s really a more of a question of simple common sense. You most likely don’t want to give a hand spear to a toddler. Likewise, you don’t want to give a hand spear to a child who is not quite physically or mentally prepared to know what to do with it. This is a vocation that has a serious learning curve that is easier for a 16 year old.
It’s a good idea to give your kids lessons on how to hold a hand spear if you want them to become enthusiasts of this sport. But it’s also a good idea to show common sense. Let them gradually work up to the idea of spearing a fish for themselves. Give them plenty of guidance because a hand spear is not an easy item to become master of.
How Do You Spearfish For Beginners?
The right way to get started on spearfishing is with safety in mind at all times. This is the kind of activity that you want to start slowly with. There is no time limit that you need to live up to. It’s perfectly acceptable to learn at your own pace. Here are the most important things that you need to know in order to get started.
Start Out in Shallow Water
The first thing you need to do is start out in shallow water. Make sure to stand where the water is calm and your footing is most solid. Also be sure to observe all of the various safety regulations that your state requires. Bring someone with you so that they can go for help in case an emergency occurs and you need medical assistance.
Start With a Stick
You should start out by standing on the shore. There, you can practice your spearing technique. Use a sharpened stick to spear any fish that come near enough to you. The idea is to get better at aiming and thrusting. Using a stick at first will enable you to concentrate on getting your moves down before you graduate to the actual spear.
Learn the Hunting Techniques
Learning how to spear and capture fish in shallow water will entail you learning all of the basic techniques for stalking. Fish swim in different areas, including on the surface, just below it, or in the shelter of nearby rocks and plant life. They won’t all move in the same way or allow themselves to be herded near the same area.
You need to get out there in order to gain experience that will help you understand how fish behave. Different species will have very different habits and reactions. But, in the end, if you stay out there long enough, you will begin to understand the patterns that they follow. This will give you the insight you need as a hunter.
Using the Hand Spear for the First Time
Once you have gotten a better idea of how to hunt, you will be ready to use the hand spear for the first time. Be sure that it is fully ready to use before you head out into the water. If you use a pole spear, keep your arm halfway out so that you have room to balance and maneuver. This will also help you better aim the spear.
At the moment that a fish comes within your range, aim for the head. When the aim is secure, release the spear. It’s always advisable to aim for the skull of the fish, since doing so will sever the spine. This will result in a quick, human death for the fish. Hunting in a humane manner is a skill you will absolutely need to master.
Spear it and Store it
Your next move will be to spear your fish and store it. Take it to a fish carrier or put it in your locker. If the fish you have just caught has sharp spines, remember to wear gloves when handling it. If it is still thrashing, use a knife to quickly sever the head in order to give your prey a quick and humane manner of death.
Is It Hard To Use A Hand Spear?
The level of difficulty that you have with a hand spear will most likely vary due to your age, size, weight, and general level of health. Most people find that using a hand spear will take some getting used to. However, with a bit of practice, it isn’t usually hard to master. Take it slow and easy so that you master this skill well.
What Size Hand Spear Should I Get?
If you are new to spear fishing, you should probably start out with a hand spear of about 120 cm. This will be the perfect size for someone who is just getting used to the length and weight of a hand spear. Make sure not to get a spear that is too close to your own height, since this will make it very hard for you to handle correctly.
As you grow more experienced with the spear, you can graduate to one that is about 7 feet in length. This is the size that most spear fishers use under normal conditions.
The goal here will be to use the spear that is best adapted to your height and weight. There are many styles and sizes of hand spear available on the market. Shop around until you the find the one that is right for your needs.