Is Spearfishing Legal in Victoria?

Spearfishing is an ancient practice that is still popular today, with many people enjoying the sport in Victoria. Spearfishing in Victoria is legal, provided the fisher complies with state laws and regulations.

Spearfishing involves using a spear or other device to catch fish from the water’s surface or from below. It differs from other forms of fishing as it does not require a rod and reel, and is instead done with a hand-held device such as a speargun or harpoon. It can be a challenging but rewarding activity, with some people enjoying the thrill of being able to catch their own fish without the need of expensive equipment.

In order to legally spearfish in Victoria, a person must have a valid fishing license. This can be bought at most tackle stores and can cost anywhere between $25 and $50 depending on the type of license purchased.

There are also limits on how much fish can be taken per day and certain species that are not permitted to be taken by spearfishers, so it is important to check these regulations before going out. In addition, there are restrictions on where spearfishing can take place in Victoria – for example it cannot be done within 100 metres of a jetty or boat ramp – so it is important to familiarise oneself with local laws before taking part in the activity.

Safety should always be paramount when spearfishing, as there can be risks involved with the sport – such as entanglement in fishing lines or getting lost at sea – so wearing appropriate safety equipment such as lifejackets should always be worn when out on the water.

Spearfishing can be an enjoyable activity for those who enjoy fishing but want something different, however they need to make sure that they follow all state laws and regulations to ensure they do not break any rules or put themselves in danger while doing so.

Conclusion: Is Spearfishing Legal in Victoria? Yes, spearfishing is legal in Victoria provided fishers comply with all relevant state laws and regulations including purchasing a valid fishing license before engaging in this activity and observing safety precautions at all times while doing so.

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Daniel Bennet