Underwater fishing

The number of underwater fishing enthusiasts is increasing every day, although this is perhaps the fishing technique with the lowest relationship b...

The number of underwater fishing enthusiasts is increasing every day, although this is perhaps the fishing technique with the lowest relationship between effort and result. But it is always very rewarding to enjoying a different world. Underwater fishing consists of catching fish with a harpoon gun, which has a range of some five or six metres. The use of underwater breathing devices is not allowed. You have a very limited time in which to locate, approach, shoot, catch and bring the fish out of the water. A normal day´s fishing can last up to eight hours during the summer and half that during the winter. Being able to hold your breath for more than two minutes requires training and perseverance. You need to learn a variety of techniques: breathing, searching, finding, approaching the catch and accurate shooting. Underwater fishing only affects adult fish of certain species and a certain size, and is the most selective system that exists. You will need a recreational underwater fishing licence issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fishing (or a licence from another autonomous region or E.U. country). In exceptional cases of an event of serious ecological impact, fishing of any kind may be prohibited in a certain area. The sale of caught fish is expressly prohibited in recreational underwater fishing. In Catalonia, with its long coastline, mild climate and first-rate waters, this type of fishing is one of the oldest and most well-established sea sport activities. The Catalan Federation of Underwater Activities organises regular competitions, and there are clubs and associations that provide the necessary equipment (wetsuit, fins, tube, buoy, weight belt and gun) and training. The Mataró Association for Fishing and Underwater Activities (in the port of Mataró) offers introductory courses on breath retention and underwater fishing, as well as theoretical classes and group boat trips.