South Africa · Spearfishing zone
Open coastal waters outside Marine Protected Areas and estuaries
What this zone is
Overview
How spearfishing is treated at Open coastal waters outside Marine Protected Areas and estuaries.
Recreational spearfishing with a valid spearfishing-endorsed permit is generally permitted along the South African coastline in waters that are not declared no-take Marine Protected Areas, not estuaries/tidal rivers/tidal lagoons, and not designated closed areas. Permit holders must observe bag limits, size limits and closed seasons.
What applies here
Restrictions
Specific rules and limits that apply within this area.
Speargun only; snorkel only (no scuba or artificial breathing apparatus); own-use catch (no sale/barter/trade); overall cumulative daily bag limit of ten fish; species size limits and closed seasons apply; no spearfishing in estuaries.
Source
This zone is documented in the official source below.
Before you dive
License for South Africa
Whether you need a license to spearfish here, and how to get one.
Apply and pay online via https://www.fishing.dffe.gov.za, or at an office/outlet authorised by the Minister. Available to anyone 12 years or older. Permit must be available for inspection while fishing.
Get your licenseOpens the official portal · fishing.dffe.gov.za
On the ground
Local shops & charters
Gear shops, charters, courses and clubs around South Africa. Sample listings are clearly marked while we verify real operators.