Complete and updated guide to freediving spearfishing rules in Italy and the Mediterranean.
Spearfishing regulations are updated periodically. This guide covers all rules in effect in 2026 for legal and responsible freediving spearfishing in Italy and the Mediterranean.
Fundamental Requirements 2026
To practice spearfishing in Italy in 2026, you must meet the following requirements: be at least 16 years old (minors between 16 and 18 need parental authorization), hold the activity communication to the Ministry of Agriculture (mandatory since 2011), and use exclusively freediving technique, without scuba gear.
Permitted Times and Periods
Spearfishing is permitted from dawn to dusk. It is strictly forbidden to spearfish at night. There are no general seasonal closures, but some species have specific closed periods related to reproduction.
Updated Safety Distances
- Minimum 500 meters from beaches frequented by swimmers
- Minimum 100 meters from fixed fishing installations (tuna traps, nets)
- Minimum 100 meters from ships anchored outside ports
- Minimum 200 meters from port entrances
- Absolute prohibition inside ports and docks
Mandatory Signaling
The diver must always signal themselves with a float bearing a red flag with a white diagonal stripe (Alpha flag), visible from at least 300 meters. The fisherman must operate within a 50-meter radius of the float or support vessel. If using a support boat, the flag must be hoisted on it.
2026 Catch Limits
Important: The daily limit is 5 kg total for fish, mollusks and crustaceans. The exception is a single specimen weighing more than 5 kg. Maximum 1 grouper per day (any species). Sale of catch by non-professional fishermen is prohibited.
Minimum Sizes of Main Species
Minimum sizes are regulated at European level (EC Reg. 1967/2006) and must always be respected. Among the most common Mediterranean species:
- European sea bass: 25 cm
- Gilthead sea bream: 20 cm
- White sea bream: 23 cm
- Dusky grouper: 45 cm
- Common dentex: 30 cm
- Greater amberjack: 45 cm
- Octopus: 450 g (eviscerated)
Marine Protected Areas (MPA)
In the Gulf of Naples and throughout the Italian Mediterranean, numerous Marine Protected Areas impose specific rules or total bans on spearfishing. Among the main MPAs near Naples:
- MPA Kingdom of Neptune (Ischia): spearfishing prohibited in all zones
- MPA Punta Campanella: variable restrictions by zone (A, B, C)
- Gaiola Underwater Park: total fishing ban
- MPA Baia: total ban in zones A and B
Always check local ordinances and updated MPA maps before fishing in a new area. Penalties for fishing in protected areas are severe and can include equipment seizure.
Administrative Obligations
Since 2011 it is mandatory to communicate non-professional fishing activity to the Ministry of Agricultural Policies. The communication is done online via SPID or CIE on the Ministry portal. A paid license is not required for freediving spearfishing, but the communication is mandatory and free.
Penalties and Fines
Violations of spearfishing regulations carry administrative penalties ranging from €1,000 to €6,000 in 2026, with possible seizure of equipment and catch. In case of fishing in MPAs, penalties can be even more severe, with potential criminal implications.
Tips for Responsible Fishing
Respecting the rules is not only a legal obligation, but a commitment to marine ecosystem sustainability. Release undersized fish, avoid fishing during reproductive periods of the most vulnerable species, and always carry a measuring tool. Freediving spearfishing is already one of the most selective forms of fishing: let's maintain this advantage by fishing conscientiously.
Watch how I follow the rules at sea
On my YouTube channel you can find videos showing how I apply regulations during my fishing trips, with practical advice for sustainable and legal fishing.
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