Spearfishing is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life for those of us who thrive on the thrill of the catch. As a spearfisherman from Llandudno, I’ve spent my fair share of time selecting and testing spearguns, from the local Welsh coastlines to trips abroad. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, picking the perfect speargun is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right speargun for your needs, with plenty of practical tips to help you make the best decision.
“In the mid-1930s, Alec Kramarenko patented a gun where a compressed spring propelled a spear. A spring propulsion gun soon followed, invented by Maxime Forlot. The banded speargun was invented in France in 1947 by Georges Beuchat. Known as the Tarzan, this gun was powered by the first ever propulsion system powered by elastic rubber bands. Gunpowder, carbon dioxide, or compressed air (pneumatic) were later used in other types of spearguns.”
Understanding Speargun Types
First things first: not all spearguns are created equal. There are two main types to consider:
- Band-powered spearguns (also called rubber-powered or sling guns)
- Pneumatic spearguns (powered by compressed air)
Each has its pros and cons, and choosing between them depends on where and how you plan to fish.
Band-powered spearguns are the most popular option, especially in the UK. They’re quieter, simple to maintain, and don’t require a pump. You’ll find that most experienced spearos prefer these because they can be easily customised by adjusting the number of bands for more or less power. This makes them highly versatile, and they come in a range of sizes to suit different conditions.
On the other hand, pneumatic spearguns are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for close-range fishing or if you’re diving in caves or tight spaces. They require more maintenance and can be noisier when fired, but they pack a serious punch and are generally faster to reload. They’re great if you want something compact for deeper dives or murky waters. There is a really good podcast on pneumatics here.
Practical Tip: Start Simple
If you’re just starting out, I’d recommend going with a band-powered speargun. They’re forgiving, easier to repair, and there’s a wealth of advice on how to set them up. Plus, in places like the waters around Llandudno, where visibility can vary, it’s better to have something reliable and versatile.
What Length Speargun Should You Get?
The length of your speargun is crucial. Too long, and you’ll struggle to manoeuvre it in the water. Too short, and you’ll sacrifice range and power.
Short spearguns (under 75cm) are great for spearfishing in caves, around rocky areas, or in murky waters. If you’re planning on hunting inshore fish like bass or mullet, this is probably the right size for you. In the coastal waters of North Wales, for instance, shorter spearguns are perfect for the sometimes unpredictable and close-quarters conditions.
Medium spearguns (75cm to 110cm) are a fantastic all-rounder. They offer a good balance between power and manoeuvrability, making them ideal for most UK conditions. This size is excellent for targeting a variety of fish, from pollock to cod, while still being manageable if you’re diving in kelp forests or rocky seabeds.
Long spearguns (110cm and above) are more suited to open water and larger prey. If you’re planning trips abroad to places with crystal-clear visibility and big fish like tuna or wahoo, you’ll want a longer gun for the extra range. But for the majority of UK spearfishing, especially around Wales, a medium-sized gun will do just fine.
Practical Tip: Match the Gun to the Location
When choosing the length, think about where you’ll be fishing the most. In places with lower visibility, like around the coast of Llandudno, you won’t need a long gun because you’ll be targeting fish closer to you. But if you’re lucky enough to head out on trips abroad, it’s worth considering a longer gun for the increased range.
What Type of Fish Will You Be Targeting?
The size and type of fish you’re after will play a big part in choosing your speargun. If you’re primarily hunting small to medium-sized fish like bass, mullet, or wrasse, a medium-length speargun with a single or double band will work perfectly. These fish are usually found close to the shore, in shallow or rocky areas, where a more manoeuvrable gun is needed.
However, if you’re after bigger fish like pollock, cod, or even conger eel, you’ll want a speargun with more power. Consider a longer gun or one with more bands to deliver the power needed to penetrate larger fish. (If you’re new to spearfishing, make sure you check out the IFCA size guidelines for species in your region).
Practical Tip: Be Prepared to Adapt
It’s always a good idea to carry a couple of different band strengths in your gear bag. You can swap bands out depending on the type of fish you encounter. Having a lighter band will make loading easier for smaller fish, while a heavier band will give you the power you need for bigger prey.
Loading Mechanism: Simple or Complex?
Another key factor in choosing the right speargun is the loading mechanism. Band-powered spearguns can come with different configurations that impact how you’ll load and fire them.
A single-band speargun is easier to load, especially if you’re new to the sport. But, it won’t deliver as much power or speed. A double-band speargun, on the other hand, will give you more power but can be a bit more challenging to load. If you’re diving in cold water (which you will be in North Wales), loading a double band can be tricky with gloves on.
Pneumatic spearguns work a bit differently, as they need to be pumped with air to the desired pressure. The higher the pressure, the more powerful the shot, but this can also make them harder to reload, especially on longer dives.
Practical Tip: Practice Loading on Land
Before heading out, practice loading your speargun on dry land. This will help you get comfortable with the process and give you a feel for the amount of force needed. Remember, cold water and gloves can make things a bit trickier!
Shaft and Tip Considerations
Now, let’s talk about the shaft and tip. Most spearguns come with a standard stainless-steel shaft, but the thickness of the shaft can affect your shot. A thicker shaft (7mm or more) is heavier, which means more power and better penetration, but it also moves more slowly through the water. A thinner shaft (6mm or less) will move faster but may not penetrate as deeply, especially on larger fish.
As for the tip, a single flopper is standard and works well for most fish you’ll find around the UK. However, if you’re after larger fish, consider a double flopper or a break-away tip, which provides better holding power.
Practical Tip: Keep Spare Shafts
It’s always a good idea to have a spare shaft or two in your kit. You never know when you might lose or damage one, especially when spearfishing around rocks or reefs.
Budget: How Much Should You Spend?
The price of a speargun can vary significantly, but you don’t need to break the bank to get something decent. For beginners, I’d recommend starting with a budget-friendly speargun that’s reliable but not too costly. As you gain experience, you can always upgrade to a more specialised model.
Entry-level spearguns typically range from £100 to £300 and offer everything you need to get started. These are great for coastal waters, targeting smaller fish, and learning the basics.
Mid-range spearguns are around £300 to £600 and offer more features, such as multiple bands or higher-quality materials. These are perfect for more experienced spearos who want something that can handle a wider range of conditions.
High-end spearguns can cost upwards of £600 and are designed for serious spearfishers targeting large, powerful fish in deep waters. These guns are often customisable and made from the highest-quality materials.
Practical Tip: Don’t Forget the Extras
When budgeting, don’t forget to factor in the cost of extras like spare shafts, tips, bands, and a good-quality reel. These can quickly add up, so it’s worth planning ahead.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Perfect Speargun
At the end of the day, the perfect speargun for you depends on your skill level, where you plan to fish, and what kind of fish you’re after. In Llandudno and the surrounding waters, I’ve found that a good-quality, medium-sized band-powered speargun with a single or double band is perfect for most conditions. But don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different configurations until you find what works best for you. There are a few factors I’ve not mentioned here, like Rollers for example. There’s a PDF with one of the best speargun guides I’ve ever seen on this page.
Spearfishing is a sport that’s as much about the experience as it is about the catch, and having the right gear makes all the difference. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect speargun for your next adventure.