Posted by John on December 14, 2001 at 18:41:11:
A while back david asked, "ok guys, i know it is illegal to spear a lobster in California, but, is it leagal to dive for bugs and posses a speargun at the same time even if you have no intention of using it for lobster??"
Here's the answer from the DFG Marine Warden down here: "The regulations state that it is illegal to possess a "hooked device while diving or attempting to dive" for crustaceans. In the case of
spearguns- if the spear tip is curved in any way, it may be considered a hooked device. For example a spear tip with a large barb or a trident tipped spear in my opinion is a hooked device. The advice that I give people- if the device can be used to spear or impale lobsters, don't carry it while physically diving for bugs. There is nothing wrong with carrying your "hooked device" in a boat, just don't take it underwater with you while diving for bugs. When you're done diving for bugs, leave your bugs in the boat and then grab
your spear gun to go fishing."