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Spearfishing for Invasive Carp and Other Invasive Species
Spearfishing for Invasive Carp and Other Invasive Species
A key distinction when spearfishing for Bighead, Silver, Grass, and Black Carp is that they are considered invasive in many areas of the US. Because of this, many jurisdictions have set no limits on the number or size of invasive fish you can take. Spearfishing is often encouraged as a means of removing these species to protect native ecosystems, even though spearfishing is not usually allowed in many areas.
Invasive Carp are typically found in shallower, often murky, freshwater river and lake systems. This favors a more accurate, close-range tool, such as a short, powerful speargun. The carp's tendency to breach the surface also makes them excellent targets for above-water methods. Spearfishing is also an effective and selective method for controlling other invasive marine species, such as Lionfish in the Atlantic and Caribbean.
For Lionfish removal, pole spears with specialized containment devices are overwhelmingly preferred due to their easily definable length and power, which helps preserve the environments where these fish have infested. Furthermore, fish's venomous spines and tendency to hold still on reefs make the distance and stability of a pole spear the most effective method.
Spear Options
Spear Options
Band Guns
Band guns are the most popular type of speargun worldwide. They use powerful elastic bands to propel a spear shaft, offering significantly more power and range than a pole spear.
Mechanism
One or more circular elastic bands are pulled back and hitched onto notches or pins on the spear shaft, which is held in place by a mechanical trigger mechanism within the gun's handle. Pulling the trigger releases the shaft.
Pros/Cons
Pros
High power, more versatility, and long range, especially with multiple bands. They are generally easier to aim and track than a pole spear because the bands provide steady, consistent energy. They have a reliable trigger mechanism and a shaft, and often lower maintenance costs than pneumatics.
Cons
Slower reload time than pole spears, requiring multiple steps: locking the shaft, pulling the bands, wrapping the line. Loading can require significant strength, sometimes needing a loading butt or chest pad.
Ideal Use Cases
Band Guns are best used for hunting medium to large fish or when the fish are particularly feisty. Shorter guns, 70-90cm, are best for tight spaces and local waterways, while longer guns, 110cm+, are for open water and larger fish.
Pneumatic Spearguns
Pneumatic spearguns use compressed air inside a sealed barrel to power the spear shaft. They are very popular in Europe and the Mediterranean.
Mechanism
The spear shaft acts as a piston, driven by compressed air within the barrel. The gun is initially charged with air using a pump, and this pressure remains constant until re-pumping is needed. The spear is loaded by pushing it into the barrel against the compressed air until it locks into the trigger mechanism.
Pros/Cons
Pros
Excellent power-to-size ratio. A short pneumatic gun can be very powerful, making them highly maneuverable in tight spots. They often provide more consistent energy to the shaft throughout its travel than a band gun. They can often be adjusted on land for lower power shots.
Cons
Loud shot noise that can spook nearby fish. They are more complex, with internal components that require more specialized maintenance. They use a specific shaft and often do not break down easily for transport.
Ideal Use Cases
They are best used in close-quarters spearfishing. They are great in low-visibility water where a short, powerful, and maneuverable gun is an advantage.
Pole Spearing
A pole spear is the most traditional, simple, and cost-effective spearfishing tool. It is essentially a long shaft with a tip at one end and an elastic band at the other.
Mechanism
The diver holds the shaft, stretches the elastic loop with their hand, and releases it, manually propelling the spear. It is a one-handed operation.
Pros/Cons
Pros
Simplicity, affordability, and fast reload speed. They are easy to maintain, break down for travel, and the fast reload is crucial for getting multiple shots on a single dive if the fish sticks around. Excellent for developing stealth and hunting skills.
Cons
Shorter range and less hitting power compared to spearguns. The lack of a mechanical trigger means the hunter must maintain tension on the band, which can cause hand fatigue during long dives.
Ideal Use Cases
Pole spears are best used for close-range hunting in reefs, holes, and poor visibility. They are often used for smaller, quick-moving fish or in environments where maneuverability is key.
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