Help Expand Spearfishing in Wisconsin
Sign the Petition
(and share with friends!)
I would like to voice my support for the legalization of regulated gamefish-focused spearfishing in the waters of Wisconsin. I encourage local law makers and stewards of natural resources to consider a spearfishing season and licensure program. I believe spearfishing is an essential part of fishing, hunting, and outdoorsmanship in Wisconsin, contributes positively to resource conservation efforts, and can fit within existing take limits and regulations.
Why spearfish?
Spearfishing encourages the development of an intimate relationship with the underwater world. The spearfisher learns fish not just by appearance, but by their behavior, movements, and physical environment. It is a window into a world most people may never see.
Is spearfishing
ecologically viable?
Yes - Spearfishing is uniquely selective and low-impact. Spearfishers only interact with fish they plan to harvest and leave the rest alone.
Unlike conventional angling, spearfishing leaves no waste and has no bycatch. Only target fish are handled, and when a spearfisher leaves the water they leave no fishing line, lead sinkers, or hooks behind. Spearfishers are subject to the same species, size, and daily bag regulations as all anglers.
Is spearfishing ethical?
Spearfishing is deeply connected to sustainability. It is centered around the idea of sourcing food in the lowest-impact, most selective way possible. Respect is shown to each harvested fish by dispatching them quickly and turning them into food.
Has this ever been done before?
Yes - Michigan recently established legal underwater spearfishing for gamefish in most of its Great Lakes Waters!
Learn more below:
Spearfishing for Gamefish Legal in Michigan
Michigan Out-of-Doors
The Wild Where You Are (Catch & Cook)
If you're curious to learn more or want to get involved, send us a note at hello@spearfishwisconsin.com
What is spearfishing?
Underwater spearfishing is a sport and food harvesting method unlike any other. It combines the rigors of freediving with the challenges and excitement of hunting. A spearfisher, armed with a band-powered speargun or polespear, holds their breath and dives to the bottom of an ocean, lake, or river in pursuit of fish. Once on the bottom, the spearfisher must use available cover and relaxed body language to approach his target fish. After a fish is harvested, it is used to provide food for the spearfisher and his family.