SDI HUNTER/COLLECTOR DIVER

The purpose of this specialty course is to actively allow the student to engage in the collection of certain marine objects and to demonstrate and explain the necessary rules of underwater hunting. Prudent and conservative techniques of both aspects must be exercised. The SDI Hunter/Collector Diver Course covers the “how-to’s” of hunting and collection of marine life.

Who this course is for:

  • The certified diver looking for more information on proper spear fishing and fish collection techniques

Course prerequisites:

  • SDI Open Water Scuba Diver, SDI Junior Open Water Diver, or equivalent

  • Minimum age 18, 10 with parental consent

What you can expect to learn:

The SDI Hunter/Collector Diver course takes an in-depth look at all of the following and more:

  • Survey of marine life

    • Salt water

    • Fresh water

  • Ecology and conservation

    • Ecology

    • Salt water

    • Conservation

  • Collecting techniques

    • Where to look

    • What to take

    • How much to take

    • How to take it

    • Legal aspects of collecting

  • Spear fishing techniques

    • Handling of the spear gun

    • What fish may be taken

    • Limits of taking

    • Hazards of spear fishing

    • What not to shoot

    • Legal aspects of spear fishing

  • Spear fishing rules

    • Rules by law

    • Rules by diving courtesy

  • Invertebrate collecting

    • Conch, clams, scallops, etc

    • Lobster

Some of the required skills you will have to demonstrate include:

  • Learn how the collecting device works; for example, how to load and shoot the spear gun

  • Use underwater targets for the student to practice shooting, and reloading spear gun underwater

  • Teaching how to hunt for lobster, show some of the different habitats in which you may find the species (if conducting this type of hunting and collecting)

  • Demonstrate how to collect a certain species, making sure that all local laws are followed

  • Enjoy the catch

What’s in it for you?

Upon successful completion of this course, graduates may engage in diving activities without direct supervision of the SDI Instructor* so long as the following limits are adhered to:

  • The diving activities approximate those of training

  • The areas of activities approximate those of training

  • Environmental conditions approximate those of training

*Note: Junior divers (ages 10-14) must participate in Hunter/Collector diving activities with a parent, guardian, or dive professional.

Also, the SDI Hunter/Collector Diver certification counts towards a single specialty rating to achieve the SDI Advanced Diver Development Program.

SDI Hunter/Collector Diver minimum requirements:

  • Complete all open water requirements efficiently

  • Demonstrate mature and sound judgment concerning dive planning and execution

How to take this course!