Spearguns

How to choose your first speargun 

Length, power and conditions are the three decisions on a first speargun, and they relate to each other. 

Length is set by the water. Shorter guns (75cm to 90cm) suit kelp, rock structure and tight reef where a long barrel cannot swing. Longer guns (100cm to 130cm) suit open water and bigger fish where range matters. Sydney's near-shore sites mix both, which is why the most popular first-gun length sits at 90cm to 100cm; it handles structure and gives enough reach for open ground. 

Power comes from three sources. Rubber-powered guns use elastic bands; they are simple, easy to load, and cover most situations. Pneumatic guns use compressed air; they punch above their weight in shorter barrels and suit boat divers who want a compact gun. Roller-band guns route the bands through pulleys at the muzzle; they produce more power per barrel length and suit experienced spearos working bigger or deeper fish. Most beginners are best served by a standard rubber-powered railgun. 

Conditions mean kelp, current and visibility. Sydney has all three depending on the site. A stiffer, more durable gun handles kelp and structure better than a delicate carbon model. Talk to us in the shop at Gladesville and we will match the gun to the sites you are likely to dive. 

Spearfishing in NSW is regulated by NSW DPIRD and requires a NSW recreational fishing fee for spearos aged 18 and over. Read the NSW spearfishing rules and licensing guide before your first session. 

New spearos: the Spearfishing Workshop at Frog Dive runs through gear, technique and safety in a single day. If you are buying remotely, call us on (02) 9958 5699 with the sites you dive and the fish you target and we will narrow the gun choice with you.