Spearfishing Cape Town: Best Dive Sites and Locations

Introduction to Spearfishing in Cape Town

Cape Town’s coastline is one of the most exciting destinations for spearfishers. From the icy Atlantic Seaboard to the lively waters of False Bay and the rugged line between Gordon’s Bay and Hangklip, each area offers something different. This guide covers the top dive sites, common species, and the conditions that make each location worth visiting.

Essential Gear for Spearfishing Success

Without the right equipment, Cape Town’s waters can be unforgiving. Good gear keeps you safe, warm, and ready to enjoy longer sessions in the ocean.

Best Spearfishing Sites on the Atlantic Seaboard

The Atlantic is colder and full of nutrients, which supports a wide range of fish. Popular sites include Kramat, Saunders Rock, and Bakhoven Rock. Summer is the best time for dives here, though large swells can make conditions tricky.

Top Spearfishing Spots in False Bay

False Bay has warmer water and hosts species like galjoen and yellowtail. Favourites include Sunnycove, Miller’s Point, and Dixies Reef. It performs best in north-westerly winds, although strong summer swells can reduce visibility.

Spearfishing Locations from Gordon’s Bay to Hangklip

This adventurous stretch includes deep reefs and sheltered bays, with well-known sites such as Rooiels and Steenbras Deep. Summer usually offers the best conditions, but visibility can drop after rain or river runoff.

Recommended Gear for Spearfishing in Cape Town

Cape Town’s contrasting dive environments require reliable, well-chosen gear. Here’s what local spearfishers commonly use:

• Wetsuits: The Cressi 5mm Opencell is ideal for the icy Atlantic, offering flexibility and warmth.
• Spearguns: For shore dives, 80–100cm guns are best. The Horizon Low Profile Railgun is a popular entry-level option.
• Fins & Socks: Spierre and Ruku carbon fins are excellent for depth, while 2mm socks protect against rocky entries.
• Mask & Snorkel: A simple mask and J-style snorkel give dependable vision. Reef masks are widely trusted.
• Float & Line: A 5-litre buoy with a 20m line is essential for fish management and diver safety.
• Weightbelts: Set to make descents smooth but light enough for an easy return to the surface.

This kit equips divers for Cape Town’s variable and often demanding conditions.

Spearfishing the Atlantic Seaboard: Key Dive Sites

Overview: Cold and nutrient-dense, this coastline is home to diverse fish stocks. Divers must take care to avoid restricted zones.

Top Dive Spots:

• Kramat: Found near Sandy Cove, this site borders the marine reserve. Historic and productive outside the protected limits.
• Bakhoven Rock: Enter via Beta Beach. Good fish between 5–15m with rocky structures that shelter target species.
• Saunders Rock: Conveniently close to Greenpoint, with fish visible almost immediately. Great for beginners and veterans.
• Clifton 4th: Rocky entry with fish hiding along outcrops at 5–10m. Suited for confident divers.
• Three Anchor Bay: Holds a range of marine life but has heavy boat traffic, making it less safe.

False Bay Spearfishing: Best Shore and Boat Entries

Overview: False Bay is warmer and richer in biodiversity than the Atlantic, making it a favourite for local spearos. Protected areas apply here too.

Top Dive Spots:

• Sunnycove: Entry near the train station, with fish mostly between 5–12m. Divers must avoid the no-take buoy zone on the right.
• Dixies Reef: Across from Dixies pub, this site is accessible and renowned for galjoen.
• Smitswinkel Bay: Hard to reach but spectacular, with occasional summer yellowtail and bonito.
• Miller’s Point: Entry from the slipway leads to a wide, species-rich bay. Suitable for all experience levels.
• Cape Point (Buffels Bay): Wild conditions and varied entries near the helipad. A galjoen hotspot for experienced divers.

Gordon’s Bay and Hangklip Spearfishing Sites

Overview: This area offers both deep reef dives and shallow bays, perfect for adventurous spearfishers.

Top Dive Spots:

• Steenbras Deep: Boat-only access, dropping to 26m. A serious challenge for advanced divers.
• Crosses: Between Rooiels and Gordon’s Bay. Drops to 25m quickly, unsuitable for novices.
• Rooiels – Balcony: Easy shore entry with deeper water nearby, offering consistent catches.
• Hangklip (Moonlight Bays): Moonlight and Small Moonlight bays have central reefs and shallow dives with fish between 5–15m.

Final Thoughts on Spearfishing in Cape Town

From the reefs of False Bay to the deeper waters of Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town offers something for every diver. With the right gear, knowledge of local conditions, and respect for protected areas, these dive sites are among the best spearfishing locations in South Africa.