Sierra Leone · Spearfishing zone
Inshore Exclusion Zone (IEZ)
What this zone is
Overview
How spearfishing is treated at Inshore Exclusion Zone (IEZ).
Coastal belt of waters seawards of the low-water line, reserved by section 18(1) of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2018 for artisanal and recreational fisheries (industrial vessels excluded). Commonly described as extending to about 12 nautical miles; the precise outer boundary coordinates are set by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Regulations 2019. Recreational fishing (the category most relevant to spearfishing) is permitted here, subject to licensing under section 14 and to MPA and closed-season restrictions.
What applies here
Restrictions
Specific rules and limits that apply within this area.
Recreational/sport fishing via a vessel requires a licence or authorisation from the Director of Fisheries (s.14); explosives, poisons, chemicals and electrical devices are prohibited (s.40); MPAs within the zone are off-limits during bans.
When it applies
Seasons
Time-of-year periods that affect spearfishing in this zone.
Subject to ministerial annual closed-season bans (e.g. April).
Source
This zone is documented in the official source below.
Before you dive
License for Sierra Leone
Whether you need a license to spearfish here, and how to get one.
Apply to the Director of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources. Details and fees are set under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Regulations 2019.
Get your licenseOpens the official portal · sliepa.gov.sl