anybody from michigans U.P.

[up_diver]

On here? Always wanted to try spearfishing but never even knew we could do it here! Even if they are just trash fish(ok smoked sucker isnt bad)they would be fun to shoot LOL. Would appreciate it if anybody from upper or lower mich would reply and tell some stories etc.

[DSmith]

I used to live in the Lower Peninsula. I don't think there would be much difference between the spearfishing in the two areas, except that your colder water might be clearer! I'm not sure what the current spearfishing regulations are for the Great Lakes, either, but with the zebra mussels you'd have much better visibility in them than what I was used to. A couple of years ago we were on vacation in the northern L.P. I didn't have a speargun, but I was amazed by how clear the water was in Lakes Michigan and Huron. I would have needed a much longer gun than the 24" mid-handle Healthways that I used to use.
I used to shoot an occasional carp and then recycle them into vegetables in my aunt's garden. The secret to shooting them in murky water was to lie still on the bottom and let them come to you. In clearer water you can probably swim around a little more.
I always shot my fish freediving. I've read that carp are one of the few fish that are attacted to scuba bubbles. If you use scuba you still might want to try remaining still to see if any carp come by to investigate.
Spearfishing didn't used to be very popular in Michigan. One buddy and I did it, but I never knew anyone else who did. Over on deeperblue.net there's a guy who lives in the Traverse City area. He might be able to tell you more about the current situation.
I hope this helps. I do a lot of spearfishing nowadays and could make some equipment recommendations for what conditions I think you'll have, if you're interested.
Good luck!
DSmith