I head down to Negra 1-2 times a year, but have never brought my spearfishing gear. I'm going to bring it this year, and didn't know if anyone on here that has been there, or in that area, has any experience or advice. I'm thinking the series of coves with rock points just to the south of Sandy Beach, or all the rock structure immediately to the north of the main break could be very great areas to access from the beach. Any advice is greatly appreciated.
one time i lost a fin in nic so i went looking for it w/mask and snorkel... i was shocked at how alive the reef was with fish of every shape/size/color.
Yeah, I am not concerned about water clarity, or if there are fish to shoot. The water at Negra is crystal clear, and you can see schools of snapper swim below you as you wait for the next set. I'm looking for a few more technical tips, since the coast is littered with reef, rocks, lava, etc. It could be real easy to get yourself in trouble, swimming out to what you think is a reef, and find out there are currents pulling you towards and exposed rock or cliff....
Locals know best, and you should know a few if you're there so often. I've seen guys work the outside edge of the inside reef that's on your left when paddling out (the one you can dry dock on, if you don't kick out in time). The second biggest shark I've seen while surfing was there. It was a 15ft tiger about 20ft past the line up. The water is only crystal clear during dry season btw. There are tons of options in that area for every skill level. During any swell Negra isn't the safest place, and you should be seeking more sheltered areas. You should already know this stuff as a twice a year veteran?
Hire a local guide for $40. I spearfish but never really considered it down there. Just seems like there's either a swell event, which means its probably no bueno, in which case I'm going to surf anyway, or the wind just blows onshore during the afternoon. Why go through all that effort to shoot smaller fish than we have up here? Plus if its dead flat then go offshore for Marlin.
