Codes of Practice
Prepared with assistance of many contributors – Version February 2022
Spearfishing, like any other sport, contains individuals who desire to test their skill against other individuals and that is why the AUF endorses competitive spearfishing events. From the very beginning of competition in Australia the controlling body led the way in setting standards to protect the environment. Many angling competitions are now catch and release and achieving similar outcomes as Spearfishing competitions which is great news across the board. These Codes of Practice have been developed to minimise the impact spearfishing has on the environment and all fish taken are required to be used for human consumption. Continuing this trend, modern spearfishing competitions are underpinned by standards that promote environmental, social, economic and safety criteria. “Neatfish” (otherwise known as the Standard for National Environmental Assessment of Tournament Fishing) is one example. “Film fishing” is yet another initiative.
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL SPEARFISHING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Spearfishing tournament self-assessed score based on 5 star rating system. Having regard to: the scoring system; gear regulations; reducing impacts on fish stocks; fish / offal disposal; environmental assessment; contribution to fisheries research and management; social assessment and interaction; economic amenity of the tournament; risk management assessment; and record keeping.
Australian Underwater Federation - Spearfishing 