Underwater Hunter Course
Learn to spearfish safely, selectively, and sustainably in the Florida Keys. Two training dives with an instructor, hands-on gear instruction, and an IDC certification card included.
About this Charter
The Underwater Hunter Course is for anyone stepping into spearfishing for the first time. IDC has been running this course in the Florida Keys for years, and the curriculum reflects the kind of local knowledge that only comes from diving and hunting these reefs every single day. The course covers everything you need to hunt safely, selectively, and sustainably — from gear basics through to Florida Keys regulations and reef etiquette.
This is not a classroom course. By 8:00 AM you're on the boat with your instructor, and by mid-morning you're in the water.
How the Course Works
The day starts at the IDC shop at Three Waters Marina with a brief manual review and PowerPoint instruction covering gear, techniques, Florida Keys regulations, and reef safety. Then you're on the boat for two spearfishing training dives with your instructor in the water alongside you the entire time.
By the end of the day you'll have covered:
- Spearfishing equipment — spearguns, pole spears, bands, tips, and maintenance
- Techniques for stalking, positioning, and taking a clean shot
- Species identification — what to target, what to avoid, and why
- Florida Keys regulations — size limits, bag limits, protected species, and sanctuary zones
- Sustainable and selective harvesting practices
- Safety — breath-hold diving fundamentals, surface signalling, and dive flag requirements
After the dives, IDC will clean your catch for you to take to a local restaurant for dinner. There's no better way to end your first spearfishing day than eating what you caught.
Certification
Every student receives an IDC Underwater Hunter certification card upon completion. If you'd like the official PADI Underwater Hunter Specialty certification instead, there is an additional $50 processing fee payable to PADI — let us know when booking and we'll arrange it.
What to Bring
A valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required before the course, available online at myfwc.com. Bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins, or rent them from the IDC shop. All spearfishing equipment is provided.
Booking
After booking online via FareHarbor, IDC will send a confirmation email with instructions on how to schedule your course date.
Other Charters
Book Your Charter Online
Morning and afternoon charters run year-round from Three Waters Marina. Whether you're booking a charter, a course, or just have questions — we're here.