Everything about spearfishing competitions: rules, categories, scoring, race calendar and tips for anyone who wants to start competing.
Important note
Spearfishing competitions require specific preparation and registration through affiliated sports clubs. Before taking part make sure you are properly prepared and that you know the current rules.
Spearfishing competitions are the sporting and competitive side of this discipline. In Italy, they are regulated by FIPSAS (Federazione Italiana Pesca Sportiva e Attività Subacquee, the Italian Federation of Sport Fishing and Underwater Activities) and take place according to an annual calendar covering several types of events.
Types of Competitions
1. Individual Competitions
- Fixed-Time Competitions: Held in a delimited area for a set time (5-6 hours)
- Elite Competitions: Reserved for top-level athletes
- Selective Competitions (Selettive): To qualify for the higher championships
2. Pairs Competitions
Athletes compete in pairs, taking turns diving and ensuring each other's safety. One stays at the surface while the other dives.
3. Team Competitions
These involve teams of three or more athletes who work together to achieve an overall score.
Scoring System
- Each valid catch earns points depending on the species
- A minimum weight is set for each species
- There is a maximum number of catches per species
- Penalties for undersized catches
Permitted Equipment
- Rubber-powered or compressed-air spearguns (regulation size)
- Wetsuit, mask, fins and snorkel
- Ballast (weight belt)
- Knife (mandatory for safety)
- Signalling buoy (mandatory)
Safety in Competitions
FIPSAS requires strict safety protocols: support boats (at least one for every 5 competitors), specialised medical staff and evacuation plans. Compliance with emergency signals and constant mutual supervision between athletes are mandatory.
Competition Calendar
- Spring-Summer: Main period for most competitions
- Late Summer-Autumn: National championship finals
- Winter: Off-season
🏆 Results and rankings of the FIPSAS selettive
Want to browse the full rankings of every selective competition from 2019 to today? On Selettive.com you will find the results of over 200 competitions, the profiles of all athletes and rankings by zone.
See the rankings on Selettive.com →How to Take Part
- FIPSAS Membership: Join an affiliated club
- Federation Card: Required for official competitions
- Medical Certificate: Competitive sports certificate is mandatory
- Freediving Certification: Highly recommended
- Club Competitions: The best way to start
Conclusion
Spearfishing competitions are an excellent way to test yourself and improve your skills. They require preparation, dedication and respect for the marine environment, but they also offer great satisfaction.
If you are interested, contact a FIPSAS club in your area. Remember: safety and respect for the environment are always the priority.
Want to see competitions in action?
On my YouTube channel you'll find videos of competitions, spearfishing techniques and practical tips to improve your performance.
Visit my YouTube channel