Spearfishing
At Dive Missoula, we offer a comprehensive selection of scuba and snorkeling rental equipment to suit all your aquatic adventures. Whether you’re jet skiing and need a shortie wetsuit, exploring underwater worlds with snorkel gear, or require a complete scuba setup, we have you covered.
Spearfishing with Dive Missoula
If you find traditional fishing exciting, spearfishing offers an even greater rush. Whether you’re snorkeling or scuba diving, in freshwater or saltwater, spearfishing provides a year-round hunting experience. At Dive Missoula, we host annual Spearfishing Derbies each summer and organize trips for the Scuba and Spearfishing Jamboree. For more information, feel free to contact us.
Regulations Overview
Spearfishing laws vary between Montana and Wyoming. It’s crucial to understand and adhere to local regulations before embarking on your spearfishing adventure.
Wyoming
Licensing: A valid fishing license and a Wyoming Conservation Stamp are required (exceptions apply for youths aged 14-18 accompanied by a licensed adult).
• Nonresident Fishing License: $92.00
• Nonresident Daily Fishing License: $14.00
• Nonresident Youth Annual Fishing License (14-18 years): $15.00
• Wyoming Conservation Stamp: $12.50
Equipment and Methods:
• Spearfishing is permitted only in lakes.
• Anglers must be completely submerged to spear game fish.
• Spears must be tethered to the speargun with a lanyard no longer than 20 feet.
• Using artificial light for spearfishing game fish is prohibited.
• Spearfishing is not allowed within 100 yards of designated swimming or water ski areas, boat docks, ramps, or spillways.
Diver’s Flag: A diver’s flag must be displayed during diving or underwater spearfishing. The flag should be rectangular, either blue and white (alpha flag) or red with a white diagonal stripe (diving flag), measuring at least 12 inches by 12 inches and displayed no less than three feet above the water surface.
Walleye Limits: The daily and possession limit for walleye is two, except where otherwise specified, such as in Alcova Reservoir (Area 5).
For detailed regulations, visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Montana
Licensing: A fishing license and conservation stamp are mandatory before spearfishing.
Regional Regulations:
Western District: All waters are closed to the spearing of game and non-game fish.
Central District: In waters open to fishing, non-game fish may be taken with rubber or spring-propelled spears by individuals swimming or submerged.
Eastern District: Non-game fish, northern pike, burbot (ling), walleye, and whitefish may be taken with rubber or spring-propelled spears by persons swimming or submerged. Spears or gigs may also be used through the ice for these species.
Dive Flags: While Montana may not have specific laws requiring dive flags, it’s a best practice to display one. Boaters are legally required to maintain a distance of at least 200 feet from a “Diver Down” flag. Violations can result in fines up to $500, six months imprisonment, or both.
For comprehensive information, consult the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Equipment and Resources
Dive Missoula offers a full line of spearguns and accessories to equip you for your spearfishing adventures. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting the right gear to ensure a safe and successful experience.
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