Spearfishing...
Is an ancient method of fishing that has been used throughout
the world for millennia. Early civilizations were familiar with the
custom of spearing fish from rivers and streams using sharpened
sticks.
Today modern spearfishing makes use of elastic powered
spearguns and slings, or compressed gas pneumatic powered
spearguns, to strike the hunted fish. Specialised techniques and
equipment have been developed for various types of aquatic
environments and target fish.
Spearfishing may be done using free-diving, snorkelling, or
scuba diving techniques. Spearfishing while using scuba equipment
is illegal in some countries. The use of mechanically powered
spearguns is also outlawed in some countries and jurisdictions.
Spearfishing is highly selective, normally uses no bait and has no
by-catch.