Yes, spearguns are legal in Mississippi for recreational spearfishing, but compliance with state wildlife statutes and local ordinances is mandatory. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) regulates their use under the 2024-2025 Fisheries Regulations, requiring a valid fishing license for saltwater spearfishing. Local municipalities, such as Biloxi and Gulfport, may impose additional restrictions on discharge zones near public beaches or piers.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Mississippi
- License Requirement: A Mississippi saltwater fishing license is mandatory for speargun use in coastal waters, per MDWFP Rule 4.05. Non-residents must purchase a non-resident license, with fees adjusted annually for 2026 compliance.
- Prohibited Species: Spearguns may not be used to harvest red drum, spotted seatrout, or other game fish designated as protected under MDWFP’s 2024 Species Restrictions. Violations incur fines up to $500 under Section 49-7-121 of the Mississippi Code.
- Discharge Restrictions: Spearguns are banned within 100 yards of public docks, piers, or designated swimming areas, as outlined in MDWFP’s 2025 Coastal Zone Management Guidelines. Local ordinances in Hancock and Harrison Counties further limit discharge to daylight hours only.
Penalties for non-compliance include license suspension and civil penalties, with enforcement coordinated by MDWFP’s Law Enforcement Division. Always verify municipal ordinances, as some cities prohibit speargun use entirely in urban waterfront zones.