Spearfishing in Colombia
Including Gorgona Island, Providencia Island, and San Bernardo Archipelago. On the map.
The vibe
Spearfishing here is a serious, hands-on endeavor that requires local knowledge to navigate the complex coastal regulations and currents. It is far from a casual holiday activity, appealing mostly to those who are prepared to integrate with local fishing customs and respect the marine environment. The best conditions align with the calmer sea months when the water clears up enough for a successful hunt.
fishing licence
Gorgona Island
Gorgona Island
Sebasgr05 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located in the Pacific, Gorgona is a volcanic island surrounded by nutrient-rich waters that host massive schools of pelagic fish. The deep-water drop-offs and strong currents make this a world-class destination for experienced bluewater hunters targeting tuna and wahoo.
Access. Access is highly controlled; visitors must book through authorized tour operators in Guapi or Buenaventura that offer specialized spearfishing expeditions. Trips are typically multi-day excursions.
Notes. As a protected National Natural Park, all hunting activities must be conducted through licensed operators who manage the necessary permits and park entry fees. Strict no-take zones exist around the island.
Providencia Island
San Andrés Island
Jose Rafael Luna Lop… / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Providencia offers crystal-clear Caribbean waters surrounding the third-largest barrier reef in the world. Spearfishing here is a traditional practice, focusing on snapper, grouper, and pelagic species found along the steep drop-offs of the reef edge.
Access. Access is primarily via boat charters from local fishermen who are familiar with the reef zones. DIY shore access is limited due to the protected nature of the inner lagoon, so booking a local guide is essential.
Notes. Spearfishing is permitted for visitors, but strictly regulated by the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve rules. Use of scuba gear for spearfishing is strictly prohibited; freediving only. Check with local authorities for current size and bag limits.
San Bernardo Archipelago
Colombia
Juan Sebastián Echeverry Grisales / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This chain of islands off the coast of Tolú offers shallow coral reefs and clear, calm waters ideal for reef hunting. It is a popular spot for targeting snapper and parrotfish in a relaxed, tropical setting.
Access. Easily accessible via boat from Tolú or Cartagena. Local boatmen frequently offer fishing trips, and the shallow nature of the reefs makes it suitable for both boat-based and shore-accessible hunting.
Notes. Spearfishing is legal but must be conducted using freediving techniques only. Avoid fishing within the immediate vicinity of the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park no-take zones.
Tayrona National Park Coast
Magdalena
adelmotrujillo@gmail… / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The coastline of Tayrona offers rugged, rocky structures and clear Caribbean waters that attract diverse snapper and grouper species. It is a prime location for hunters looking to explore dramatic underwater topography just a short boat ride from Santa Marta.
Access. Visitors can hire specialized spearfishing guides based in Santa Marta or Taganga who operate private pangas. These operators are essential for navigating park regulations and accessing the best rocky outcrops.
Notes. Spearfishing within the National Park boundaries is strictly regulated; you must use a licensed local guide who is authorized to operate in the area to ensure compliance with environmental laws.