Legendary Spearfishing Charters in Crete & Greek Islands
Published on: January 5, 2025
By PANOS BARDIS, Owner & Ceo of SEAZE THE DAY
experienced freediving instructor and a passionate local spearfishing enthusiast
Let’s Talk About Spearfishing in Greece!
Is it winter, and you’re already dreaming about your summer vacation in Greece? Maybe the stunning Greek islands and Crete are calling your name as you plan an unforgettable escape. Imagine adding something truly special to your trip. Learn to spearfish, sharpen your skills, or catch your own fish and savor it in the most sustainable way.
This is more than just an activity; it’s a passion we live and breathe every day. Our spearfishing charters in Crete and the Greek Islands are crafted with care, expertise, and a deep love for the sea. And whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned spearfisher, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the best fishing spots, the fish you can catch, how to spearfish responsibly, and even a few ideas for unforgettable spearfishing charters. So, let’s dive in and start planning your adventure of a lifetime!
What is Spearfishing?
Spearfishing is the art of catching fish with a spear while diving. In Greece, and in most countries around the world, the only permitted way to spearfish is by holding your breath. This method, known as free diving, combines skill, patience, and a deep connection to the underwater world.
At its most basic, the equipment needed includes a mask and a speargun. However, to be fully equipped and comfortable, you’ll also need a snorkel, fins, a wetsuit, a weight belt, and a buoy. These tools not only enhance your experience but also ensure your safety and efficiency underwater.
Essential Equipment for Spearfishing in Greece
In the following section, we will talk about what you need to bring if you are planning to come to Greece for spearfishing. If you’re trying spearfishing for the first time or don’t want to bring your own gear, don’t worry—we provide all the necessary equipment as part of our guided tours.
Mask
The most important part of spearfishing equipment is definitely the mask.
First, forget about snorkeling masks that cover the full face, nose, and mouth, which have become popular lately. These masks are unsuitable for spearfishing because you cannot equalize pressure, they have too much air volume, and they distort distances and sizes underwater.
A proper spearfishing or free-diving mask is low to medium volume, typically made from latex or, even better, silicone and glass. It only covers the eyes and nose, leaving the mouth exposed. Choosing the correct mask is vital! Many people, including experienced divers, find it challenging to switch to a different model once they get used to one.
How do you choose the correct mask? First, visit a dive shop and try on several masks. Place each mask on your face and try to inhale through your nose. If the mask stays attached to your face without holding it, and if you can’t breathe, it means no air is entering the mask, then it’s a good fit. For beginners, a mask with average volume is ideal. As you progress and dive deeper, a low-volume mask will make equalization easier and more efficient.
Snorkel
Another essential part of spearfishing equipment is the snorkel.
The snorkel is an elastic tube about 35-45 cm long, usually elliptical in shape, with a mouthpiece attached. It allows you to breathe on the surface while keeping your head submerged. This way, you can continuously observe the seabed and relax while preparing for your next dive.
Safety Tips
It’s crucial to remember that during a free dive, you must remove the snorkel from your mouth to ensure your mouth stays closed while holding your breath. This helps prevent water from entering your airway and allows for better control during the dive.
Additionally, never attach the snorkel to your mask with a clip. Instead, tuck it under the strap of your mask. This setup allows you to quickly remove the snorkel if needed, preventing accidental loss of your mask when moving near rocks or if it gets caught in ropes or nets. Properly managing your snorkel setup ensures a safer and more enjoyable spearfishing experience.
Fins
Fins are used for propulsion both underwater and at the surface.
They come in various sizes, shapes, stiffness levels, and materials. For divers aiming to go beyond 6-7 meters, long fins are essential for better performance. However, beginners often find casual, average-sized plastic fins more comfortable and easier to use.
Today’s spearfishing fins are often made from carbon fiber, paired with different types of foot pockets made from materials like latex, hard silicone, or other composites. As a mechanical engineer, my diploma thesis was on the Performance Evaluation of Swim Fins Under Zero Translation Speed, and I can confidently say this: the correct foot pocket must match the blade and the diver’s technique. The blade should not be too stiff, but at the same time, it needs to be flexible and responsive for efficient propulsion.
The cost of fins varies widely depending on the material and purpose. A pair of snorkeling fins may cost around 60 to 80 euros, which is sufficient for those aiming to fish for fun in shallow waters. Plastic long fins typically range from 100 to 150 euros, while high-performance carbon fiber fins can cost between 350 to 500 euros.
Fin Technique Tips:
- Master Your Technique: Proper technique greatly influences the efficiency of your dive. It helps reduce oxygen consumption, increases propulsion, and results in longer and safer dives.
- Avoid Bicycle Kicking: Do not kick the water like pedaling a bicycle. Instead, focus on “pushing water,” ensuring the fin works equally well in both forward and backward movements.
- Engage Your Hips: Generate power from your hips with smooth, harmonious movements. Keep your body relaxed and engage only the necessary muscles to maximize efficiency.
Speargun
Nowadays, spearguns have become highly advanced.
In the market, you’ll find a wide variety of options, including rubber-powered and pneumatic (air-powered) spearguns, models with two or three rubbers, and spearguns of various sizes. Additionally, spearguns can have different types of shafts, such as Tahitian, three-pronged, or five-pronged heads, each suited for specific techniques and targets. Finally, specialized spearguns like rollers and inverted rollers stand out for their advanced features, offering enhanced power and precision in the water.
Which is the ideal speargun for spearfishing in Crete and the Greek islands?
The answer isn’t straightforward—it largely depends on the skill level of the spearo and the technique they use.
If I were to choose a single speargun, I’d go for a versatile model measuring 75-85 cm. This size refers to the length of the tube, not including the handle and the head of the gun. A setup with one or two pairs of rubber bands, a Tahitian-type shaft, and a reel (moulinet) is an all-time classic. This reliable and adaptable choice works well for most spearfishing conditions in the Greek waters.
Wetsuit
The spearo’s free-diving wetsuit is a vital part of the gear that keeps you warm and lets you enjoy your underwater adventures.
It has two main pieces. The pants, which cover the legs and extend slightly below the chest, and the upper part, which includes an integrated hood and covers the torso.
In general, for warmer months, a 3mm wetsuit is usually sufficient, while winter diving often requires a thicker suit of 8-9mm. Wetsuits are made from various types of neoprene, including Yamamoto, Heiwa, Seiko, and Daiwabo. Each of these, with its own advantages and drawbacks. Designs also vary, with some having a smoothskin or nylon exterior, while most feature an open-cell interior for better insulation.
Water Temperature Graph for Chania, Crete
Below is a graph illustrating the average water temperatures in Chania, Crete, throughout the year:
Average Water Temperatures in Greece
To explore detailed water temperature data across Greece, visit the official resource.
Recommended Wetsuit Thickness Based on Water Temperature
Weightbelt
The weightbelt is an essential part of spearfishing equipment, particularly for those wearing a wetsuit. Wearing a wetsuit alters the body’s buoyancy, making it more positive, similar to wearing a life jacket. Thicker wetsuits require additional weights.
For example, a general guideline suggests matching the wetsuit’s thickness in millimeters to the weight in kilograms. A 5mm wetsuit, for instance, often requires about 5kg of weights.
To fine-tune the balance, aim for slightly negative buoyancy at your fishing depth. Additionally, consider reducing weights for deeper dives to facilitate an easier ascent. In shallow waters, more weights may be necessary.
Keep in mind, this process can be affected by factors such as wetsuit material quality, individual body composition, and diving technique. Experimenting with detachable weights in the water helps determine the ideal configuration for your needs.
Secondary but Necessary Spearfishing Equipment
Gloves
Spearfishing gloves protect your hands from sharp rocks, fish spines, and underwater hazards while providing a better grip on your equipment.
When choosing gloves, I personally recommend opting for ergonomic gloves that feel like you’re not wearing any at all. A good sense of touch is crucial for tasks like fixing the speargun, inserting the shaft, adjusting the fishing line that connects the speargun to the shaft, or placing fish on the fish stringer.
In case of emergencies or unexpected tangles with fishing nets or the speargun line, thinner, more flexible gloves make it easier to untangle yourself or grab your knife quickly. While thicker gloves provide better insulation and protection against the cold, prioritizing dexterity and functionality is more important—even in winter.
The best gloves often combine neoprene on the upper part for insulation and leather on the palm side. The leather retains excellent tactile sensitivity even when wet, making it ideal for handling equipment with precision.
Dive Socks
Dive socks are made from neoprene and come with different textures. They can have nylon both inside and outside, smoothskin on the outside with open cell on the inside, or a combination of these textures.They also come in various thicknesses, ranging from thin 1.5-2mm options to thicker ones up to 5mm.
Personally, I recommend thin and elastic dive socks (1.5-2mm), even during the winter season. In summer, a pair of socks can still be beneficial, as it helps reduce the total weight needed on your belt and adds extra comfort.
Choosing the right socks is essential for ensuring your spearfins fit snugly on your feet. Socks that are too loose can cause blisters, you may lose your fin while swimming, or your fins may not be as efficient. On the other hand, socks that are too tight can become uncomfortable during long hours in the water. Look for a balance that keeps your fins tight enough without causing discomfort.
Dive Buoy
A dive buoy is one of the most essential pieces of equipment for any underwater activity, especially spearfishing. It is a cylindrical floating device, typically bright yellow, that features a flag to indicate underwater activity. The buoy can be made of inflatable PVC or neoprene or constructed from more rigid materials.
Why is a dive buoy important?
- Safety: In Greece, especially during the busy summer months, a dive buoy is crucial for ensuring your visibility to passing boats. By law, boats must maintain a safe distance of at least 100 meters from the buoy.
- Convenience: Apart from safety, the buoy allows you to carry additional equipment such as spearguns, fish stringers, water bottles, or other accessories using the appropriate straps.
The buoy is equipped with floating rope and a reel to manage excess rope length. If you’re using variable weights during your dive, a thicker sinking rope can be helpful for retrieving your weights from the seabed while reducing tangling risks.
Never dive in Greece, particularly during the high season, without a properly marked dive buoy—it is your best defense against potential hazards while enhancing the overall convenience of your spearfishing experience.