Spearfishing is a regulated activity that requires practitioners to follow specific rules. It is the most selective fishing method and therefore the most environmentally friendly. The capture of certain species is prohibited, and catches are reserved exclusively for personal consumption. The rules governing spearfishing apply to all French territorial waters, with additional local obligations in certain areas.

General Prohibitions in Spearfishing

• It is forbidden for individuals under the age of 16 to practice spearfishing;
• The use of any breathing apparatus, whether autonomous or not, is prohibited; possessing both a breathing apparatus and spearfishing gear at the same time is forbidden;
• The use of artificial light sources to attract fish is not permitted;
• The use of fishing gear powered by explosive elements or compressed gas, other than the diver’s own physical strength, is prohibited;
• Spearfishing between sunset and sunrise is not permitted;
• It is forbidden to fish within 150 m of ships or marked fishing nets;
• Spearfishing with oxygen tanks is prohibited;
• The sale of caught fish is prohibited;
• Spearfishing near swimmers is not allowed;
• It is forbidden to capture marine animals from gear or nets set by other fishermen.

Every diver must signal their presence with a flag, which may be a Saint Andrew’s cross (often used by NATO), a red flag with a white diagonal stripe, or an Alpha flag.

Saint Andrew’s Cross

Red flag with white diagonal stripe

Alpha Flag

The flag can be attached to the vessel (boat, kayak, etc.), or if the diver is practicing free diving spearfishing, the signal must be placed on a buoy topped with an “Alpha” flag.

Mares Torpedo Buoy

In all cases, the higher the flag is placed, the more visible the buoy will be, the more identifiable the flag, and the more recognizable the safety zone.

Other sets of rules apply specifically in certain regions. For example, on the Mediterranean coast, catching grouper and, more recently, corb is prohibited. Please check with the nearest Departmental Maritime Affairs Office.

Failure to comply with these rules may result in criminal or disciplinary action.

FNPSA License

By applying for your license from the federation, you commit to complying with both general and local regulations.

This license allows you to prove you have civil liability insurance, which is mandatory. It is all the more essential when handling spearguns, whether pneumatic or band-powered harpoons.