Spearfishing in Central America is one of its best kept secrets. Most people in Central America are unaware of diving opportunities and less aware of spearfishing adventures. Everyone knows someone or has been on a stingray fishing trip, but little did they know that the lakes themselves are also great for spearfishing.
Lake Tenkiller in Oklahoma boasts of having the clearest water in the area, but it also has excellent spear fishing. There are tournaments every year for the competitive spear fisherman. Catfish sometimes blend into the bottom and are often found under downed trees and logs that have settled to the bottom. Be careful not to hit logs or branches because catfish are sensitive to vibrations. Large bass is fun to look at, but don’t hit one because it’s protected from spear anglers. But if spearfishing isn’t your thing, the lake makes a good recreational dive for a family weekend with beautiful overhangs that could go through caves.
Lake Travis Texas has 270 miles of shoreline and depths of up to 200 feet and is the fifth lake in a series of six lakes formed by dams on the Colorado River. Spearfishing is legal, but only for non-game fish, carp, drum, tarpon, and others. Water clarity is much better in spring, as is common in most lakes. Make no mistake, fish grow and are fun to hunt. Always obtain a license and find out which gambling is legal before chasing the prey. Texas laws are very strict.
There are too many lakes in Arkansas to list that allow spearfishing and there are some lakes where sport fishing is allowed, but it changes with the seasons and dates. Beaver Lake is a fun spot for spearfishing and there are half a dozen spots to enter the shoreline, but dive flags are required by law. Water clarity is good most of the year, but water clarity is generally always better in the spring.
You don’t need to go to the ocean or some exotic place to enjoy spearfishing or diving. But it is important to have the proper training for all diving adventures. Diving is only safe based on training and skill level. Be safe, have fun, and take the family exploring underwater adventures.
