Can You Take a Speargun on a Plane? What Every Spearo Needs to Know Before Take-off

Every year thousands of spearos travel the globe in hopes of landing their dream fish. Whether it’s Doggies in Tonga or Halibut in the Arctic; one question often pops up more than most: Can you take a speargun on a plane? 

The short answer: Yes, or more correctly - Most of the time. 

Different airlines have different restrictions:

Different airlines have different rules for travel so to be safe you should ALWAYS call and check with the airline you are flying with well in advance about their spearfishing policies. 

Local rules and regulations:

Another important factor is whether spearguns themselves are even legal in the areas you are traveling to and through. Make sure you do your research in advance in regards to the rules and restrictions for the regions you plan to go spearfishing. It’s not worth spending the time and money to chase your dream fish just to have your spearfishing gear seized upon arrival. 

Oversized and extra baggage:

Some airlines charge extra fees for larger luggage. Make sure you have booked more than enough check-in luggage and oversized bags if required. It’s better to have more weight for the flight back in case your spearfishing gear hasn’t properly dried and still has water weight!

(BONUS TIP: Sometimes you are allowed to bring some of your catch back with you so make sure to check rules and regs on importing seafood if you want to bring back some tasty souvenirs!)

How to pack your spearfishing gear for travel:

Everyone is well aware of the brutal nature of luggage handling at airports. Your spearfishing equipment, spearguns and fins are not only expensive but also crucial to having a successful trip. Make sure you pack things tight in your sports tube/dive bag/pvc pipe so they don’t move around, and fill gaps and wrap valuables with bubble wrap!!! Put rubber tips on your spears as well. 

(BONUS TIP: Some airlines require the shaft to be dis-engaged from the speargun when you are travelling. We recommend it regardless. You may ask “why?” The answer: your speargun is a lot longer with the shaft engaged. Unloading the shaft = more room for extra spearfishing gear and clothes!)

To declare or Not to declare?

Many spearo's will tell you not to declare your equipment. This is a big risk down the road and may result in losing your speargun!

The best thing to do is check with the airline prior to travel. That being said, once you know you are allowed to travel with your spear gear, Avoid saying “speargun”, “guns”, “spears”, and other trigger words when at the airport. If asked at the airport “what's inside”; it’s best to be a bit vague and say “underwater fishing equipment” or similar. Some employees are not well versed in their airline's spearfishing rules and may extend your wait in line if you say “gun”. 

Overview:

Flying with spearguns isn’t complicated if you plan ahead. With careful packing and attention to airline rules, your Aimrite spearfishing gear can safely travel with you to your next dive adventure.

Want to know what spearfishing gear to buy in order to land your dream fish, or what the best all round gun for your travels is? - Call us today for a free consultation!