How did you get into spearfishing?
I’ve always loved being in the sea, and shortly after moving to Cornwall (about 10 years ago), my other half—who’s completely mad about spearfishing—got me curious about it. At first, I didn’t think it was something I could do. I’m Type 1 Diabetic, and I was worried my blood glucose levels would be too difficult to manage while hunting underwater.
But when I started working for Start Point Spearfishing, I decided to give it a go. My partner was incredibly patient and supportive, and I took baby steps to test how diving would affect my sugar levels—paying attention to the time of day, the weather, and how long I was in the water. I also carefully planned what kit I’d need in case my levels dropped too low.
It took a few months of trial and error to figure out my ‘pre-dive’ routine and build the confidence to feel safe—and most importantly, relaxed—in the water. Now, I get to share this passion for spearfishing and underwater foraging with my partner. It’s the best feeling knowing that even with a disability, I can still enjoy a sport I love.
What do you love about it?
Being underwater gives me a sense of calmness and wonder, I find spearfishing a completely
immersive experience. You never know what you might see, it’s always a different experience
every time I go.
What’s your favourite bit of gear?
That’s a very difficult question to answer and I’ve narrowed it down to 4! (Jen is our store manager so knows a lot about the gear).
1) My large float, without it I wouldn’t be able to take the equipment, food, etc I need to be
able to dive safely.
2) Start Point Carbon fins. I started using carbon fins last year and what a difference they
make! Before I used to suffer with cramp which usually meant the end of the dive, but
since moving to light weight carbon fins my bottom time has improved and no more
cramp!
3) Womens spearfishing wetsuit. I started with a ‘unisex’ wetsuit so a men’s wetsuit really
but it was so uncomfortable as it just didn’t fit a curvy shape. I find the Start Point
Women’s wetsuit so comfortable and fits me like a glove.
4) Start Point bespoke wooden speargun. My wooden speargun is so nice to use in the
water, it tracks so well as it’s been hand-crafted to be neutrally buoyant…it’s just a
dream to use.
What do you love about working in the shop?
There are lots of things I love about working for Start Point Spearfishing! Helping customers is one of
them, whether it’s giving advice, recommending products or fixing their equipment. Just knowing
I’ve helped them enjoy a hobby which they are (and I am) passionate about is extremely
rewarding.
I’ve got to mention I love working for a company that is passionate about what they do, has
good moral values and provides great customer service.
What’s your favourite spot and why?
The coastline around Lansallos has got to be my favourite place. I’ve had so many good dives
there, when the sun is shining, the water is turquoise blue and you could be fooled into believing
you’re holidaying abroad.
What’s your favourite thing to catch?
Honestly, anything 😂 I love the hunt of spotting and shooting! I get a kick of adrenaline and
satisfaction knowing I can kill what I eat!
Favourite thing to cook?
It’s all so tasty but Trigger fish has been the tastiest fish I’ve eaten. I like to use a fish steamer
as it’s super quick and the meat just falls off the bone. Spider crab is also a firm favourite, but
generally it’s all delicious lobsters, scallops, bass, mullet, cuttlefish….the list is endless.
Last one, any advice/words of spearfishing wisdom?
It’s like anything new, the more you do the better you become. So if you’re just starting to
spearfish, take it step by step or dive by dive, learn from each experience and enjoy the ride.
Always remember safety comes first but fun is a close second!
Imersion Challenger Float Board (SMB)
The brand new Imersion Challenger Float Board is a must have for shore diving. The float can easily store spearfishing or diving gear for a day’s diving and due to the hydrodynamic design is easy to tow in the water!
Start Point Carbon Fins
If you are interested in taking your spearfishing to the next level with the most efficient diving equipment, these carbon fins are for you.
The carbon blades are the absolute top of the range and we believe you won’t find any better at this price point.