Monterey Hunting Party: Spearfishing in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Read the full experience

Experience the exhilarating Monterey Hunting Party, a private spearfishing adventure offered by Odyssey Freediving in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Tailored specifically for those with prior spearfishing experience, this guided trip focuses on enhancing your underwater hunting skills in an intimate group setting. Expert instructors provide personalized site selection based on daily ocean conditions, ensuring optimal fishing grounds for each excursion. Alongside professional guidance, you receive hands-on equipment assistance to maximize safety and efficiency while you dive. The thrill comes from confidently hunting on your own with certified guides close by for assurance. After an active day in the Pacific waters, enjoy a complimentary fish processing session where your catch is carefully cleaned and prepared, perfect for a fresh, delicious meal back on shore. This experience combines skill refinement, personalized coaching, and an authentic connection with the ocean, making it ideal for spearfishing enthusiasts looking to push their limits while staying safe.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

expert.

Duration

4–6 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should be in excellent physical condition, comfortable with breath-hold diving, and capable of swimming in open ocean conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior spearfishing experience to join the Monterey Hunting Party?

Yes, this trip is designed for experienced spearfishers who are comfortable with breath-hold diving and underwater hunting.

Is all spearfishing equipment provided?

Equipment assistance is provided, but you should bring your personal gear including spearguns and wetsuits.

What safety measures are in place during the adventure?

A certified guide accompanies every group to ensure safe diving practices and provide emergency support if needed.

Can I keep all the fish I catch?

You can keep fish within California’s legal limits and species allowed by state regulations.

How do I prepare my catch after the dive?

The company offers complimentary fish processing so you can enjoy a fresh, cleaned catch ready for your meal.

What is the best time of year for this experience?

Late spring through early fall provides the best water conditions and fish availability for spearfishing.

Local insights

Wildlife

California sea lions
Garibaldi fish

History

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a rich maritime heritage connected to fishing communities dating back to the early 20th century.

Conservation

The area emphasizes sustainable fishing practices and marine protected zones to preserve ocean health and biodiversity.

About This Experience

Odyssey Freediving is a Monterey, California-based freediving and spearfishing school offering structured courses and guided ocean experiences. The school runs multi-day freediving courses — including a two-day Monterey Freediver Course and a three-day Advanced Freediver Course — that combine classroom learning, pool training, and open-ocean sessions to develop depth and safety skills. The Advanced Freediver Course trains students to reach depths up to 100 feet, while private freediver programs include training to depths up to 66 feet under close supervision. For underwater hunting, Odyssey Freediving offers spearfishing instruction and guided outings. The Monterey Intro to Spearfishing Course is an eight-hour class covering speargun handling, fish identification, and hands-on ocean practice. A Private Spearfishing Course provides one-on-one coaching with the same eight-hour format and a catch-and-cook option. Guided Monterey Hunting Party trips accommodate divers with prior experience, emphasizing small-group site selection, equipment assistance, and on-site fish processing. Courses frequently include pool practice, open-water sessions, and safety-focused instruction from certified guides and instructors. Several programs note included rental gear for course participants. Group sizes and private options allow tailored instruction for skill level and personal goals. Located in Monterey, the operation uses local access to Monterey Bay for ocean training and hunting trips. Odyssey Freediving focuses on practical skill development, safety protocols, and authentic underwater experiences for freedivers and spearfishers. Enrollment options include group courses and private instruction suitable for beginners through advanced students, with emphasis on safety, practical drills, and progressive depth training. Local Monterey Bay conditions are used for realistic ocean practice.

Base locationCarmel-by-the-Sea, California

Tours offered

Adventure tips

Know Your Local Marine RegulationsCheck California fishing and spearfishing regulations before you dive to ensure compliance with protected species and limits.

Use Proper Equalization TechniquesEqualizing your ears properly can prevent discomfort and barotrauma during repeated dives in cold water.

Stay Hydrated and WarmBring water and wear thermal protection like a wetsuit to manage cold Pacific temperatures and prevent dehydration.

Practice Responsible Wildlife InteractionMaintain distance from marine life to minimize disturbance and ensure a sustainable underwater ecosystem.

Recommended gear

3mm to 5mm Wetsuit: Provides thermal protection necessary for the cooler Pacific waters during and after spearfishing sessions.
Speargun: Your primary tool for hunting fish efficiently and safely underwater.
Dive Computer or Wrist Gauge: Monitors depth and dive time to help manage safety and optimize dive profiles.
Float and Flag Buoy: Essential for signaling your position to boats while resting on the surface.