Victoria, BC Spearfishing

[longboat]

This is my first post on all of Spearboard, though I monitor it all the time.

I am going to be in Victoria in May for about a week, just to hike, hang out etc. I was thinking about bringing my spearfishing gear if there was any chance of diving with anyone. I don't know a thing about species, regulations, conditions, etc. so anything would help.

About me, I am a 27 year old California diver. I am no 90 foot diver, but I am comfortable in the water and safe. Have a five ml suit and several different size guns. Just looking for info or buddies. If the spearfishing isn't feasible, I'd be happy to grab a beer too. Thanks and good luck to everyone up there.

[gwedge]

Not sure when you will be up there but I'll be there may 19/20 for 4 or 5 days. I'm sort of in the same boat - never been up there but wanna dive and would prefer to do it with a buddy. If your up there the same time, maybe we can hook up. If not, good luck!

[longboat]

I'm going May 8-12, but I will pass along anything I find out. Good luck.

[beaver]

I live in Victoria and spearfish every weekend, and have a boat. My wife dives as well and films most of our outings. If you need some advice and or ideas as well as restaurant and hotel info I would be glad to assist. unfortunately you are coming just before ling cod open June 1 near Victoria However some other areas are open around the island as of april 15. I can also help you with license and any other questions you have.

PM me as I do not wish to publicly post my email and or phone number.

PS as for suits a 5 mill is fine as long as you have an over suit for scuba. I am not much into free diving for fish as it is challenging enough out here with the cold, and other associated factors (I have dove free and can hold my breath up to 3 minutes 30 so that is not a factor but to spear a fish it usually takes 10 minutes or so underwater at extreme depths so with the cold here it is just unenjoyable)

shore diving is tough here and the most popular location is closed to spear fishing because its a Marine park

wind and currents are a factor:this time of year currents run as high a 9 knots in most dive locations so going on low slack is great advice.

* water temp -think BRRR its FACKING Cold 44-46 around this time of year and it doesn't go up much in the summer as the water moves so much

[beaver]

Great to meet you yesterday Dan. Sorry it was a "blow day" more suited to windsurfing and not a dive trip. Glad you enjoyed the city and next time you are up we will get us some fish.

[prime8]

Hello Mr. beaver... How's it going? Have you had much luck going near shore spearfishing?? I live in Alberta, and i am thinking of coming out there for aug. some time, but I have no idea where I could find any fish that would even be worth taking a poke at. I am just learning scuba, so that won't really be a good option as I will only have completed my open water in july, and the currents out there would likely scare the crap out of me. Hence I would like to stay close to shore for the time being. Do you have any advice for me, or anything?
Thanks.
Kelsy