bangsticks/powerhead in california
Hi,
I've read a lot about taking fish with power heads in Florida being illegal, but I just can't seem to find anything about the laws in California. Assuming the fish is legal to take, is it legal to use a bullet to do so? Thanks! |
Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
Nice introduction.
I don't know whether its legal or not, but I'm willing to bet that it would make you unpopular with other divers. |
Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
Why's that?
If there are no divers close enough to spook with a bang, and I'm taking the same insignificant number of fish, whats the problem? |
Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
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And there is the question of why? My impression is powerheads are used on the east coast by commercial divers trying to take big fish quickly and efficiently. That doesn't apply out here. On a more personal note, no one is going to use one diving from my boat. I've read about accidental discharges, and I'm not going to risk it. |
Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
I just looked on line at the CA fishing regulations, and I couldn't find any mention of powerheads in the "gear restrictions" section. It did say that fish could be taken by hook and line, by hand, and by "spearfishing gear" but it didn't define spearfishing gear. It could be mentioned some place that I didn't look though.
Do you live and dive in California? Most people find that they get a better reception if they start with a personal introduction- where they live, what they hunt, diving experience, freedive or scuba, etc. Or just putting some info in your profile would help. |
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I've been scuba diving/snorkling since I was a kid. I'm thinking about getting some freediving fins and taking freediving a bit more seriously (I've already broke 5 min static, so I think I should be decent at it :)). I don't hunt anything in particular- I'll pole spear an occasional sheephead and I wrestled and angel shark up by hand a couple weeks ago. I think that earned me a few 'sporting' points to spend on trying out a bang stick :) Edit: filled in profile |
Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
I've never seen anyone use one out here. I thought they were used to shoot sharks if they are trying to eat you.
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
Seems excessive for CA. But give it a whirl.
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
You are likely to be nailed for firearms violation if you are caught with one unless it is constructed with CA particulars in mind.
You won't be invited on many boats (mine included). Reason? Too much crap for me to deal with. And I go diving to enjoy the peace/serenity and may be dinner. Powerheads going off would not contribute to what I seek. You will help hasten closures in CA. Read: Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 33 page 7362 http://graysreef.noaa.gov/management...fr_75_7361.pdf |
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
In FL it is illegal to take foodfish by powerhead. I think the commercial guys use them in federal waters. I carry a couple of slip ons in a sealed bag in case the grey suits get a little too aggressive. No chance of accidental discharge, only take em out if you need em.
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
If I could get a tag for the annual elephant seal season, or jetskier hunt, I would use one....Or maybe for that angelshark as thick as a volley ball and bigger than my car. Otherwise not too much use except to provoke people.
Jeremy |
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While they didn't seem to give the rationale for banning powerheads, I can't see any reason my intended use would be harmful at all. Quote:
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
My quick search of westlaw and lexis nexis for cases or statutes turned up nothing in particular. However, I would be very careful; it may be the case that discharging a firearm underwater would violate a federal or state statute that does not directly address firearms but would be covered nevertheless: environmental regulation and or statutes come to mind.
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Re: bangsticks/powerhead in california
Yes Jimmy, it is true...
use of a powerhead to take a fish here in CA is a FELONY Dick-o-ramous offense ;) Not a good way to get buddies to dive with, IMHO. Leave the fireworks at home, and bring a bigger gun if need be. |
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