Best Spearfishing in South America

Have you always dreamt of spearfishing in South America? you’re not alone — this vast continent is home to some of the most exciting and diverse spearfishing waters in the world. From the deep Pacific currents of Chile and Ecuador to Brazil’s warm, reef-filled coastline, South America offers adventure in every form. Whether you’re hunting for amberjack in the tropics or snapper in the southern kelp forests, the continent’s coastlines promise both challenge and reward for spearfishers of every level.

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5 Best Spearfishing Sites in South America

1. Brazil – Tropical Reefs and Bluewater Hunts

Stretching over 7,000 kilometres, Brazil’s coastline is a spearfisher’s dream. The reefs of Bahia and Espírito Santo brim with snapper, grouper, and barracuda, while offshore waters offer pelagic thrills like wahoo and tuna. In Fernando de Noronha, the crystal-clear water and thriving marine ecosystems make for unforgettable dives. The culture here is relaxed and welcoming, and local guides ensure that every outing respects sustainable fishing limits.

Best time to visit: July to December for calm seas and clear water.

2. Chile – Cold Currents and Wild Coasts

Chile’s rugged Pacific coast offers a raw, untamed experience for seasoned spearfishers. Kelp forests sway in the cold Humboldt Current, home to robalo (sea bass), rockfish, and large crustaceans. In southern Patagonia, the fjords provide eerie, silent hunting grounds beneath snow-capped peaks. Wetsuits are essential, but the pristine wilderness and untouched marine life make every dive worth it.

Best time: November to March for the most stable conditions.

3. Ecuador – Galápagos Adventure

Spearfishing in the Galápagos is strictly controlled, but designated areas near the mainland and around Santa Cruz Island provide legal, sustainable opportunities for those seeking an unforgettable experience. The nutrient-rich waters bring in large schools of tuna, amberjack, and the occasional wahoo. Many spearfishers come for the thrill of bluewater hunting — surrounded by dolphins, turtles, and the shadowy presence of hammerheads in the distance.

Best time: June to November for cooler waters and pelagic action.

4. Uruguay – Shallow Shores and Silver Trevally

Often overlooked, Uruguay’s coast offers some surprisingly productive spearfishing, especially around Punta del Este. The shallow reefs attract silver trevally, bream, and sea bass, making it an ideal spot for relaxed shore dives. Local fishing clubs are welcoming to visitors and provide insight into the country’s long-standing spearfishing traditions.

Best time: December to March for warm water and low swells.

5. Colombia – Caribbean Calm and Coral Reefs

Colombia’s Caribbean coast is perfect for freediving and spearfishing alike. Around the Rosario Islands and San Andrés, divers can target grouper, snapper, and hogfish in warm, clear conditions. Offshore bluewater expeditions head into deeper zones for larger gamefish, often returning with tales of tuna and dorado. The combination of turquoise seas and laid-back island life makes it as relaxing as it is exciting.

Best time: January to August for optimal clarity and access.

Why Spearfish South America

From the icy kelp forests of Patagonia to the tropical shallows of Colombia, South America’s spearfishing scene is as diverse as the continent itself. Here, every coastline tells a story — of culture, courage, and deep respect for the ocean. Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm reefs or an expert chasing bluewater giants, South America is ready to challenge and inspire.

When to Spearfish South America

The best time to spearfish South America, water temperatures, and target species:

Caribbean Coast, Colombia (Pelagics): September to November (for Billfish, Dorado, Tuna). Waters from 27°C / 81°F up to 30°C / 86°F.
Venezuela (Caribbean Coast): May to August (Snappers) and October to February (Groupers). Waters from 22°C / 72°F up to 30°C / 86°F.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil (Atlantic): Year-round, but calmer seas and best clarity often August to December. Waters from 26°C / 79°F up to 28°C / 82°F.
Patagonia (Chile/Argentina - Cold Water): Spearfishing season runs from November to May. Waters are cold (often below 15°C / 59°F). Targets are typically bottom fish and certain seasonal species.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Spearfishing is generally prohibited within the Galapagos Marine Reserve.