Before you do anything, you’ll need to obtain a spearfishing license in Spain. Depending on where you buy your speargun, they might ask you to show it. The process is fairly simple if you know where to go and what to ask for. This shouldn’t cost more than €45.
Medical Exam
€ 25
For some reason, Spain requires a “health” check before issuing a license for underwater activities. This exam is superficial and takes no more than 10 minutes. The exam’s extent varies greatly depending on the examiner. Sometimes, I’ve only been asked about my health, while other times I’ve had an EKG attached. You can often find a good deal near the DGT, as many people get them for their driver’s licenses. This is the place that we typically go to.
Licencia de pesca subacuática
€ 20
Before you get started, be sure to check the details on the Catalunya Government site. Once ready, click the START button at the top or start the application from here. All these pages are available in English if you click the EN flag at the top. When selecting “Licencia de pesca subacuática” for your license, you’ll need the medical exam number and the doctor’s office number printed on the certificate you received. Here’s where it can get a little confusing: once you’ve saved your application, you’ll need to pay for it here.
Whats next?
Once you get your license you will want to keep it with you whenever you go fishing. I typically never go fishing without my phone so I just keep a digital copy on me just in case. The license will expire in a year so be sure to set a calendar reminder so you don’t forget. I have personally never had a problem with the police while fishing but I personally would rather be safe than sorry.