Important clarification: I refer to the broad use of any device used to impale a fish as spearfishing, however, I am primarily supporting the legalization of pole spears and Hawaiian slings.

The ocean is the backbone of Cayman's economy supports the lifestyle we are all so lucky to live. Over the last few years, there has been a noticeable decline in the health of our fisheries. People's reckless practices are solely to blame for the continued global decline in the health of the ocean. 

Our island has been against the concept of spearfishing for a while. Currently, only select Caymanians over the age of 18 can spearfish. The justification to why by the government is that spearfishing is an unsustainable practice. The fact is, this is completely false. Comparing it to line fishing, a common and legal practice in the Cayman Islands, spearfishing is way more environmentally friendly. The main reason why is because the spearo has control over many variables line fishermen don't. Such variables are as followed:

1. size (sexually mature)
2. species (not endangered)
3. behavior (not reproducing)
4. time of year (season)
5. area (unprotected)

The reasons highlighted above assist to lessen by-catch, a major contributing factor to declining species populations. Certain guidelines need to be in place to help maintain this activity would be a sustainable practice. Below are some suggestions:

1. Only the use Hawaiian slings and pole spears should be permitted
2. No use any type of underwater air supply for spear fishing or collecting of any marine life. This includes scuba gear as well as air compressors.
3. Fish species, catch, and weight limits