Hunting & Fishing Anyone spearfishing Tampa/St. Pete area?

[atepointer]

There are 5 of us who'd like to branch out a bit this summer. I grew up using a sling spear in lakes on channel cats, bass and bluegill....time to upgrade the beast harvest. Have always wanted to do the salts so it's on this summer. 5 out of 6 are scuba certified and we have access to a small bay flats boat and also a Dorado 23 for some not too far offshore trips. Another buddy has a 34' Marlago, but I can't speak to it's availability like I can the aforementioned boats. Mostly looking to freedive bay for simplicity, but definitely doing some scuba trips this summer when Snapper opens up. If you are local would enjoy linking up, chatting etc sharing the knowledge.

 

[Powder_Burns]

Maybe plan a trip to the east coast and dive the reefs, the gulf is all mud bottom. Visibility can’t be very good out there until you get like 10 miles offshore. Curious to know how it works out for you.

 

[Mike Casselton]

Bay boat would work over on your coast, but this skiff needs to stay in the protected waters of Tampa Bay, or areas like that.

Even then, windy days it's only used in the shallows or it gets a bit rough.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I’m interested in spear fishing and have been looking into it but I need to get recertified. I’m just north of you in NPR. The spear fishing at the wrecks and reefs near anclote key is supposed to be pretty good most of the year. I’m looking to buy a Cape Horn 31T within the next year or so to take out.

 

[Powder_Burns]

I could be wrong but I thought you couldn’t use scuba for spearing unless you were a licensed commercial diver.
edit - only rebreathers are prohibited.

 

[Mike Casselton]

I’m interested in spear fishing and have been looking into it but I need to get recertified. I’m just north of you in NPR. The spear fishing at the wrecks and reefs near anclote key is supposed to be pretty good most of the year. I’m looking to buy a Cape Horn 31T within the next year or so to take out.

So that's where you ended up. I recall you mentioning moving to the Tampa-ish area.

How is the scallop season looking for this year?