PFI Reef Spearfishing Adventure in Monterey, CA
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3+ hours classroom + full day diving
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with strong breath-holding ability and swimming skills.
Overview
Master the art of reef spearfishing in Monterey with a private course designed for certified freedivers. Learn essential safety and conservation skills, then dive into an unforgettable underwater adventure.
PFI: Reef Spearfishing - Monterey, CA
Discover the art of stalking and hunting underwater
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join an exhilarating spearfishing course designed for certified freedivers! Over three hours of classroom instruction followed by a day of diving in Monterey, you'll master essential techniques, safety protocols, and conservation practices. Equip yourself with the skills to hunt responsibly while enjoying the thrill of the underwater world.
TRAINING COSTS:
- $300 Tuition
- $50 PFI Registration Fee
DURATION
- 3 hour classroom
- 1 day diving in Monterey
The payment of Course Fees guarantees TRAINING, not necessarily certification. Certification is EARNED only by successfully meeting all applicable standards and objectives.
OBJECTIVE: This course is to provide certified freedivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to spearfish, take game and collect specimens while minimizing the diving risks of such activities.
TECHNIQUES & SKILLS:
- freediving techniques
- hazards/safety
- equipment
- specific hunting techniques
- conservation
- fishing laws & regulations
- sportsmanship
- selecting specimens
- utilizing the catch
- preservation
- shell collecting
- diving locations
DIVER PRE-REQS:
- 16 Years Old (parent/guardian release is required)
- Certified Freediver
- Have a current CA Fishing License
DIVER RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Comfortable with 10-15m depths
- 30sec - 1minute bottom times
GEAR REQUIREMENTS:
- Mask & Snorkel
- Dive Knife
- Stringer (hard/soft) and/or Game Bag
- Speargun (rentable)
GEAR RECOMMENDED:
- Dive light (rentable)
Adventure Tips
Get Comfortable with Cold Water
Monterey waters are chilly year-round; a high-quality wetsuit is essential for comfort and safety.
Practice Breath-Holding Techniques
Being comfortable with breath-holding underwater helps improve your safety and success in spearfishing.
Respect Local Regulations
Know Monterey Bay’s fishing regulations and protected species before diving to ensure legal and ethical spearfishing.
Bring a Dive Flag
Use a dive flag to alert boats of your presence while spearfishing underwater in busy coastal areas.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California sea otters
- giant kelp forest inhabitants
History
Monterey Bay has a rich history as a fishing hub dating back to the 19th century, with an evolving focus on sustainable marine practices.
Conservation
Monterey Bay Aquarium’s efforts have helped protect local species like rockfish and abalone while promoting responsible recreational fishing.
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Adventure Hotspots in Monterey
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
5mm or thicker wetsuit
Keeps you warm in Monterey’s cold waters and protects against scrapes.
year-round specific
Freediving fins
Efficient fins help conserve energy and improve propulsion underwater.
Speargun or pole spear
Your primary tool for the spearfishing portion of the adventure.
Dive computer or timer
Monitors your dive time and safety stops during freediving.