Spearfishing Lesson
Introduction about SpearfishingThat's a gun designed to deliver a kill shot when reeling in a big catch during trolling, not intended for shooting underwater. But it was too late to realize that when I made the purchase.
Even though I couldn't catch anything, since I was physically active this time, I didn't think of quitting. However, during this self-taught period, I hardly made any progress. After a while, I met a local fisherman named Ed, and he started taking me out. Ed, diving about 10-15 meters down, would accurately shoot and hit the target fish. The traditional wooden gun he lent me had excellent accuracy and range, and by imitating his diving technique, I soon became proficient at catching parrot fish. It was as if all the previous struggles were erased, and I started enjoying clean catches effortlessly. I realized the importance of observation and having the right equipment. Then, I was fortunate enough to receive guidance from Felix, the island's top freediving fisherman. He taught me techniques like breathing and patiently waiting for fish to approach the seabed. On the first day, I was able to catch fish that lurked in holes even at 20 meters depth. From then on, it became much more enjoyable, and I started going out with him regularly, gradually improving my skills while being completely absorbed in it. Observing someone diving motionless at the seabed is truly invaluable. Through repetition, the brain begins to recognize what humans are capable of, not through thought but through constant observation, making it a natural image over time. The joy of spearfishing comes from quietly approaching the targeted fish, waiting patiently with a clear mind until the target approaches, encountering unexpectedly good fish, the thrill of chasing an escaping target, the satisfaction of a catch, fighting with powerful fish, and finally securing the catch. Each experience adds to the enjoyment. Moreover, the beauty of spearfishing lies in the ability to choose the fish. Each species presents a different level of difficulty in catching, and larger individuals of the same species are more cautious, having lived longer and grown bigger, making them harder to catch. Here, catch limits for each fish species are also defined, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable fishing method. Money is extremely important. Accidents can ultimately rob you of your life, your future, and end up costing significantly more money for a funeral.
Continuing spearfishing without proper training is akin to driving without a license. Not having a dive computer is like driving a car without a gas gauge or speedometer. People who think "I've learned enough from Youtube" are not realizing the risk they're putting their lives at stake for free.
To put it bluntly, by the time you realize the sorrowful sight of grieving families and your own funeral as a soul watching, it's already too late. I would be happy if people didn't skimp on safety and instead valued their lives, experiencing the wonderful moments in the sea. If they do, they will surely be surprised by how amazing the ocean is and how enjoyable spearfishing can be.
In this course, we draw upon over 30 years of spearfishing experience from Felix Sasaomoto, who is not only the Micronesian spearfishing champion but also my mentor and buddy, combined with my 20 years of instructional experience. We continuously update the content to ensure it remains top-notch. In places like Saipan and across Micronesia, fishing often refers specifically to spearfishing, a practice deeply ingrained in people's lives. While methods like angling, trolling, and netting are common, spearfishing is the only method recognized as a sport in the Micronesian Olympics. The Basics of Spearfishing Spearfishing is a popular activity in many parts of the world, and is used for a variety of purposes. Some spearfish for sport, others for food. Spearfishing has been around for centuries, During way back to early civilization, back then sharpened sticks were used to spear, whereas now there are elastic and high powered spearguns available. We offer a skindiving class for the beginners that are unfamiliar with free diving. We recommend taking it before spearfishing. This class covers the basics of free diving safely and efficiently. We also offer packages that cover both courses.
if your willing to stand your ground they will leave. they can sense your fear. so try not to be scared. that's the most important rule. if they come to close poke them with the tip of your shaft so they keep there distance and leave. sharks are attracted to the vibration of a fish when shot and struggling. blood is one of the reasons they follow. Its not you the shark is following its the dead fish on your stringer. taking your time and placing a kill shot will avoid the shark knowing what just happened. they never even come. if you succeed with a kill shot. shark wont attempt to get the fish even if the shark is next to it. in our case we go get the fish before the shark has a chance to take it. if the shark happens to get the fish let him have it. In most cases they only take the fish. but in reality with our experience you better worry about not catching anything then a shark. about 50% of participant will have no catch. the other half will have really small of a fish which a shark doesn't pay attention to. many people believe urine attracts the sharks which is BS. Sharks have a very powerful sense of smell. there is no shark that I've ever seen attracted to my urine. Urine equals food to some fish. even if you don't urinate they will sometimes come. |
*In Micronesia, "when you say lets go fishing! "Fishing" means spearfishing. That's how common Spearfishing is for the island life.
The angling fishing is called "Rod and Reel".
people enjoy to rod & reel consists of bottom fishing, trolling, cliff fishing,and even beach casting. throwing net are also common but only spearfishing is in the category of Micronesian Olympic Games.
【Spearfishing Gear】 1. Mask & Snorkel:A good spearfishing mask for the experts will be low Profile for deep dives. If you’re fishing shallow then almost any mask with Good vision works. choose a snorkel with no purge. Simple is good. |
【Speargun】
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【Potentially Hazardous Fish】
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How to kill the fish...Ikejime
Ikejime is a method of paralyzing fish to maintain its quality. The technique originated in Japan, but is now in widespread use. It involves the insertion of a spike quickly and directly into the brain, thereby causing immediate brain death. A fish brain is usually located slightly behind and above the eye. When spiked correctly, the fish fins flare and the fish relaxes, immediately dies for a more humane death.. Destroying the brain and the spinal cord of the fish will prevent reflex action from happening. Movement of the muscle consumes Adenoid triphosphate(ATP) in the muscle acid is produced, thereby making the fish sour. The blood contained in the fish flesh retracts to the gut cavity, which produces a better colored and flavored fillet. This method is considered to be the fastest and most humane method of killing fish.
◎Course |
①In reef Course
This is good course for the beginners. This is for those who want to just try it for the first time. You can start where you can stand. This is a great activity for families or a group for friends. |
②Outer-reef Course
This is a good course for the more advanced snorkeler or free diver because it takes you to some deeper waters found outside of the reef. You can keep only what you like or you can keep all of the fish you catch! There are some local restaurants here, Sally's(BBQ & Local), Umi-bozu(Japanese), and Furusato(Japanese) Restaurant, that they will prepare your fresh catch for you! |
③Half day Boat Course
This is a great course for those who have experienced spearfishing. We will take you to some of best spots which fits your level. The boat depart 2pm and coming back by 5pm. |
④All day Boat Charter
This course is recommended for advanced spearfishers only because it takes you to the back of the island of Saipan. Though this area is known for rougher surf and strong currents, the spearfishing sites are pristine and mostly untouched. |
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: -The use of a scuba unit while spearfishing is strictly prohibited in the CNMI. -We cannot offer courses to certain popularly requested areas as they are marine conservation areas and any fishing is strictly prohibited. These areas include the Grotto, Bird Island, Managaha Island, and other sites that are restricted to access by boat. -We practice sustainable fishing habits by catching only fish that are suitable for eating or selling to vendors. This means that we only intentionally aim at and intend to catch fish of a certain kind and size. -For your own safety, please listen carefully and follow all and suggestions given to you by our Instructor, or Captain. When contacting us or making reservations, please include the following information: - Your Name - Hotel - Room number - The number of participants - Desired dates and course -Skill lever/or how deep is your Max. |
◎Instructors |
Royce Gumabay Spearfishing Instructor Born and raised in Saipan. Started spearfishing in 2015. |
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<Felix Sasamoto> |
Felix T. Sasamoto Jr. Spearfishing Instructor Born and raised in Saipan. Over 40 years of spearfishing experience. He knowns as a champion Spearfisherman in the Marianas. You can learn a lot from his top-ranking mentality and skills, he has become a living legend in spearfishing. '07,'08,'09 Guam Tourney, CNMI Rep. for Micronesian Olympic Game '02(Tahiti),'06(Saipan),'10(Palau) 2-Times Gold medalist in Micro Game(Saipan) on '06 "Sasamoto - Asai Team" won 1st place in category fish in Guam tourney on '08' "Sasamoto - Asai Team" won 2nd place team category in Guam on '09 ☆Social Contribution Activities ◉2006-12' Marianas Apnea Spearfishing Club(M.A.S.C) Founding Vise-President ◉2012-14' NPO Marianas Apnea Spearfishing Club(M.A.S.C)President ◉2007-14' 1st- 7th Annual Spearfishing Tournament Organizer ◉2008 Spearfishing Lecture at Elementary / Jr. High / High School |
<Morito Asai> |
Morito Asai ☆Social Contribution Activities ☆Record of Awards |
PHOTO BY HIDEO HONDA |
Rules
* No Scuba fishing * No Fishing in MPA(Marine Protected Area) * No shooting for prohibited species(Rays, Sharks, Turtles, and some more fish) |
FAQ
- I don’t even know where to start?
You can start by taking a skindiving course. After that you will know weather you going to continue or not
- What is Aquasmith?
Aquasmith is a spearfishing Store/School( we do not do scuba)
- Where can I find all the gears?
Aquasmith sells everything a spearfisherman needs and more. If your looking for top of the line Spearguns come visit Aquasmith
- How do I know when its good to fish?
Check the weather channel for wind direction. Normally you want to go fishing at the other end of the island where the wind is not coming from
- Whats the difference of night fishing and day fishing?
more effort and skill. Long guns are used for long shots cause unlike night time the fish keep there distance
- Are long fins necessary?
Long fins are not necessary unless diving deep or moving in strong currents. Long fins can be used freediving, spearfishing, and even just snorkeling. diving depths of 30 feet or greater will require the diver to kick hard at first when descending and ascending. This is what the main reason for long fins are.
- What a good speargun for beginners?
Normally shorter guns are for beginners or smaller fish. I would recommend a 75cm or a 90cm size speargun for first timers. why?
- Do wet suits help?
Yes wetsuits help in more then one way. The suit is made to keep you warm and comfortable while fishing long hours. The camo on them also help conceal the fisherman. This way fish come even closer for the shot.
- I smoke and was wondering if I can do it?
Even smokers can do this. Its not a big deal unless you trying to become a competitive diver
Cancellation Policy |
Cancellation Charges ( p/p ) |
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Reservations cancelled less than thirty days before the date of arrival will require you to pay the following charges |
20% of Course fee |
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Three days in advance |
50% of Course fee |
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No show or same day | 100% of Course fee |
Our location: Garapan, Saipan
e-mail. aquasmith111@gmail.com
Our store is located on Garapan street 2nd floor of the M2M building. AQUASMITH is the largest spearfishing store in the Micronesia. |