How to Choose the Right Speargun Length (Complete Guide)

March 15 2026, by NZDiver Admin, 3 min reading time

Choosing the right speargun length is essential for improving accuracy, range, and manoeuvrability underwater. In this guide, we explain how water visibility and target fish species affect the ideal speargun size, helping you select the best speargun for your spearfishing conditions.

Choosing the right speargun length is one of the most important decisions a spearfisher can make. The correct size will make your speargun easier to handle, improve accuracy, and increase your chances of landing fish. Selecting a speargun that is too long for your conditions can make it difficult to manoeuvre, while choosing one that is too short can significantly limit your range.

This guide will help you understand how speargun lengths work and how to choose the best size based on visibility and target species.

Understanding Speargun Length

Speargun lengths are determined by the barrel length, not the total length of the speargun. This means the overall length is much longer than the size advertised.

For example, a 110 cm speargun can measure over 165 cm in total length once the shaft is engaged in the handle.

Because of this, it’s important to consider how easily you can handle the speargun underwater, especially in tight spaces such as reefs, rocks, or kelp.

Choosing a Speargun Based on Visibility

Water visibility plays a major role in determining the ideal speargun length. In low visibility conditions you need a shorter speargun for better manoeuvrability, while clear water allows you to use longer spearguns for greater range.

Low Visibility (1–3 m)
Recommended speargun length: 50–70 cm
Short spearguns are easier to swing quickly in murky water and tight spaces.

Average Visibility (3–10 m)
Recommended speargun length: 80–110 cm
This is the most common visibility range and allows for a versatile mid-length speargun.

Good Visibility (10–20 m)
Recommended speargun length: 110–120 cm
Longer guns help extend your range when fish can be seen from further away.

Blue Water (20–30 m+)
Recommended speargun length: 130 cm
Long spearguns provide the power and range needed for open water hunting.

Mixed Conditions
Recommended speargun length: 100–110 cm
If you regularly dive in a variety of environments, this is often the most versatile choice.

Choosing a Speargun Based on Target Species

The size and behaviour of the fish you are targeting should also influence your speargun choice.

Very Small Fish / Close Range
Recommended speargun length: 50–80 cm
Ideal for quick shots and tight reef environments.

Average Fish (around 5 kg)
Recommended speargun length: 80–100 cm
Provides a good balance of manoeuvrability and range.

Medium to Large Fish (5–25 kg)
Recommended speargun length: 100–120 cm
Offers more power and range for larger fish.

Game Fish and Tropical Species (25 kg+)
Recommended speargun length: 130 cm
Designed for maximum power and longer shooting distance.

Mixed Species
Recommended speargun length: 100–110 cm
A versatile option for divers targeting a variety of fish sizes.

What Is the Best All-Round Speargun Length?

If you’re unsure which size to choose, a 100–110 cm speargun is widely considered the best all-round option. It provides a great balance of power, range, and manoeuvrability, making it suitable for many different diving conditions and fish species.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right speargun length can greatly improve your spearfishing experience. By considering both water visibility and target species, you can choose a speargun that performs well in your typical diving conditions.

If you’re still unsure which speargun length is right for you, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re always happy to help you choose the perfect setup for your next dive.