The Real Speargun-builder of Rhode Island: Ep. 1

Ok, after a long hiatus, I’m bringing back the Ocean State Spearguns blog.  A lot has happened with the shop, and we have a LOT of exciting projects and plans for the near future.  I want to use this as a vehicle to share the goings on here in the wood shop!

First and foremost, fishing season is FINALLY here in New England!  After a righteous winter with some epic snowfalls, the water temps are creeping up and the fish are on the move.  Reports of striped bass migrating on the western end of Long Island sound are coming in and I’ve even heard (trustworthy) reports of a striper or two seen in Stonington.  Water temps are not yet at that magic 50F, however a few brave souls have brought home the first togs of the season.  Get after it, enjoy the season, and dive safe!

With regards to diving safe…. I am now a F.I.I. freedive instructor and will be holding courses here in Rhode Island.  Taking a class will not only make you a better diver, more importantly it will give you the tools to dive safer.  The classes takes about 1.5 days and consists of classroom and in-water training.  If you are interested in course offerings, please visit the “Learn to Freedive” tab on the website. I should note that these classes are extremely popular and I have limited openings right now.  I am planning on adding a few more dates in the summer and am looking to hold in-pool sessions over the winter (more to come on that later).  Please don’t hesitate to call, text, or email with any questions.

In other education-related news… I just held my first “Spearfishing 101” talk at Saltwater’s Edge in Middletown last Wednesday.  We had a great turnout with some excited new divers.  This talk is the talk I wish I had when I first started spearfishing.  I give a brief overview on safety, rules and regulations, where to go (no spot burning), gear selection, and of course… SPEARGUNS!  If you missed this event, there are plans in the works for another event in a shop in Westerly, so stay tuned for that!

I think that’s it for now.  I gotta go pack my dive bag… someone’s going hunting tomorrow!

-Matt