Cuba's Courageous Spear fisherman - and His Deadly Catch

The most interesting thing about them isn't what they catch - it's what they catch them with...

In Havana, a hook and line is not the only way to catch a fish. If you want to be a Havana spear fisherman, you need considerable equipment, courage, and you really have to swim well.

Some head far out to sea. Others hug the rocks, despite the often unpredictable waves. When he finally emerges, there are plenty of others on hand to help – this is something of a team sport. Even the frigate birds get their share.

Most spear fishermen drag their catch behind them on floats. Others stuff the fish into their wetsuit pants. That may not be too wise, since they’re not the only predators out there.

It’s a barracuda. At twelve pounds, it will bring in a month’s income, and as an added bonus, comes with bragging rights. It’s quite a story… After he speared the barracuda, it took him for quite a ride. When it turned he pulled in the line and carefully grabbed its tail. They fought, and he finally got it by the gills.

Like most things in Cuba, their spear guns are homemade. They use an old bicycle pump to compress the air, car and plumbing parts for the rest. Why go through all that effort?
“It comes to 50-60 dollars. In the store this gun is worth 180-200 – this size.”

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Category: Travel

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