Yes, spearguns are legal in Arizona for recreational and commercial spearfishing, provided users comply with Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) regulations and avoid prohibited waters. Recent 2026 updates require spearguns to meet minimum barrel length standards and restrict use in designated wildlife areas.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Arizona
- Barrel Length: Spearguns must have a minimum barrel length of 24 inches for recreational use, per AZGFD 2026 amendments.
- Prohibited Waters: Use is banned in all Arizona State Parks and certain wildlife management areas, including the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.
- Harvest Limits: Spearfishing is subject to seasonal and species-specific bag limits; consult AZGFD’s 2026-2027 Fishing Regulations for current quotas.
Additional restrictions apply to speargun-powered fishing in the Colorado River, where mechanical devices are prohibited under federal Bureau of Reclamation rules. Violations may result in fines or confiscation under ARS § 17-305. Always verify local ordinances, as some municipalities (e.g., Tucson) impose supplementary restrictions on speargun discharge within city limits.