Spear Fishing in Pensacola, Florida: Exploring the Best Dive Spots and Target Species

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Pensacola, Florida, offers a rich and vibrant experience for both beginners and experienced spearfishermen. With its diverse marine life, artificial reefs, and wrecks, Pensacola is a prime destination for those seeking an exhilarating underwater adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best dive spots, target species, and regulations to help you plan your spearfishing expedition in Pensacola.

Best Dive Spots for Spearfishing in Pensacola, Florida

  1. Artificial Reefs: Pensacola is renowned for its numerous artificial reefs, which provide habitats for a variety of fish species. These reefs are located just off the coast and offer excellent opportunities for spearfishing.

  2. Wrecks: The Pensacola area is home to several wrecks, including the “Lost Tug,” which are popular destinations for both spearfishing and scuba diving.

  3. Inshore Spots: For inshore spearfishing, the old Navarre fishing pier and areas around the three-mile bridge are mentioned as potential spots, but be sure to check regulations regarding jetties and state parks.

Target Species for Spearfishing in Pensacola

Spear Fishing in Pensacola Florida

  1. Grouper: A common target species in Pensacola waters.
  2. Red Snapper: Another popular species for spearfishing in the area.
  3. Amberjack: Found in Pensacola waters and suitable for spearfishing.
  4. Almaco Jack: Targeted by spearfishermen in the region.
  5. Mangrove Snapper: Also found in Pensacola waters and suitable for spearfishing.
  6. Lionfish: An invasive species, lionfish are often targeted by spearfishermen to help preserve the local ecosystem.

Regulations and Permits for Spearfishing in Pensacola

  1. Florida Fish and Wildlife Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the regulations for spearfishing in Florida, including seasons, identification, sizing, and limits. The Florida Fish and Wildlife app is a useful resource for staying up-to-date on regulations.

  2. Federal Reef Fishing Permit: Some charters, like Niuhi Dive Charters, have a federal reef fishing permit, allowing divers to spearfish in both state and federal waters.

  3. Florida Fishing License: While some charters cover divers under their permit, it is essential to check if you need a personal Florida fishing license.

Charters and Guides

  1. Niuhi Dive Charters: Offers spearfishing and lobstering scuba diving trips in Pensacola, with a federal reef fishing permit and experience in both state and federal waters.

  2. Shark Quest Dive Shop: Allows spearfishing on inshore trips and provides information on regulations and permits.

Additional Tips and Resources

  1. Visibility: Visibility in Pensacola waters can vary, with some days offering 60-foot visibility and others only 5 feet. Location and thermocline can affect visibility.

  2. FWC Map: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission provides a map of artificial reefs in Florida, which can be helpful in planning your spearfishing trip.

Spearfishing in Pensacola, Florida, offers a unique and thrilling experience for both novice and experienced divers. By understanding the best dive spots, target species, regulations, and available resources, you can plan an unforgettable spearfishing adventure in this vibrant coastal region.

References:
– Shark Quest Dive Shop. (n.d.). Spearfishing. Retrieved from https://scuba-dive-pensacola.com/spearfishing
– Niuhi Dive Charters. (n.d.). Spearfishing Charters Florida. Retrieved from https://niuhidivecharters.com/spearfishing
– Reddit. (2023). Pensacola FL. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Spearfishing/comments/166e8h5/pensacola_fl/
– Pensacola Fishing Forum. (2009). inshore spearfishing help. Retrieved from https://www.pensacolafishingforum.com/threads/inshore-spearfishing-help.34249/
– YouTube. (2022). SPEARFISHING THE LOST TUG OFFSHORE PENSACOLA FLORIDA GREAT SCUBA DIVING. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8ax3PTT81A

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