Spearfishing on the Duane?

[Wizard]

I was on the wreck of the Coast Guard Cutter Duane this AM and saw a commercial dive boat from Key Largo unload their divers to include someone with a speargun. I have hunted fish for years and I have no problem with spearfishing as long as it's done responsibly. My question is: Is it responsible to spearfish on a shipwreck that is on the National Register of Historic places while other recreational divers are trying to enjoy it? There were 2 other groups of divers on the wreck and it seems to me that it was pretty irresponsible. There are many other places that one can go if you need to kill something but not when other groups are trying to enjoy it. My vote is to make it a no take zone and try and protect it and those that are trying to enjoy it.

 

[WreckWriter]

Its irresponsible to spearfish anytime recreational divers are present. I have no problem with spearing on the Duane in itself, I've done it several times and brought home some nice AJ from there.

I don't think it should be a "law" but maybe something discussed at a KADO meeting to try and get the commercial guys to agree on being a bit more careful about it.

WW

 

[Former FLL Now MSP Diver]

I didn't think spearfishing was allowed in the National Marine Sanctuary. Or does the Duane lay outside the boundaries?

Marc

 

[gpatton]

The FKNMS rules are at http://www.fknms.nos.noaa.gov/regs/#Sanct-wideregs

As I understand it, the Daune is legal spearfishing ground. It is in the FKNMS, but outside the Pennekamp and outside of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary which the Federal waters out to 300 feet (chart 11462) that is directly adjacent to Pennekamp. Spearfishing is prohibited in both Pennekamp and Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary

Spearfishing on the Spiegel Grove is prohibited because it is in Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.

Spearfishing isn't completely prohibited in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctury. Only in the Special Prervation Areas.
http://www.fknms.nos.noaa.gov/research_monitoring/map.html

I believe Florida State law prohibits spearfishing in state waters (within 3 miles of shore) down to Long Key, south of Long Key spearfishing is legal in within 1 mile of shore.

I am not sure is any of these rules have changed recently. If they have let me know.

 

[WreckWriter]

gpatton is correct as I understand the laws.

WW

 

[Bob3]

I'm a fairly avid spearfisherman, wouldn't do it myself but also not about to impose my standards on another as long as it's done safely & legally.