Best Pole Spear
Tyler Jones
Brankica Ivanova
Would you consider yourself a genuine fan of spearfishing? Are you someone who is looking for a new weapon to utilize during such? Or, are you just a novice who is looking to learn about one of the most popular spearfishing tools out there? Either way, everyone has come here today for a reason. So, let’s talk about pole spear a little bit.
As their name suggests, these tools are essentially just large poles that can be used to spearfish. However, as simple as they sound, there are plenty of design implementations and features that can make certain models superior to others. On this journey today, you will be witnessed to all of these. And, by the end of this guide, you will have a much clearer understanding of what it takes to buy your ideal pole spear.
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It can transform into many different lengths
Designed with high-strength carbon fiber
Sports aircraft-grade aluminum fittings
Our Top Picks For The Best Pole Spear
1. Evolve Pole Spear
It can transform into many different lengths
Designed with high-strength carbon fiber
Sports aircraft-grade aluminum fittings
Not too many accessories are included
If you are serious about spearfishing then you probably want to pull no punches with the spear that you buy. Well, it is safe to say that this model here is perfect for people just like that.
Read moreMaterials
In addition to the high-strength carbon fiber that makes up the pole itself, this is also equipped with aircraft-grade aluminum fittings for extra durability.
Length
Arguably the best feature of this design is the fact that five different lengths can be achieved. For the record, the five sizes range from six to nine feet.
Features
Even though this does not actually come with a tip (you need to buy one separately), it does come with a band. Of course, you can add optional bands at your own leisure.
Handling
Handling this model should not give you too many issues. It certainly is well-designed when it comes to this section.
Portability
Past the fact that this can be transformed into different lengths, it also comes in multiple pieces. So, when you travel, this can save you some additional space.
Overall
Some of you may not love the fact that this does not come with a tip but it really is brilliantly designed in pretty much every way imaginable. Yes, it really is that good.
2. EIGHT'ER Hybrid Pole Spear
It comes with a standard band
It will break down for portability
Made with both aluminum and carbon-graphite
The heads are sold separately
At eight foot in total length, this is suitable for those of you looking to hunt larger fish species. The carbon-graphite and solid aluminum hybrid makeup also helps with this.
Read moreMaterials
As was just mentioned, this is actually a hybrid model and it makes it extremely unique. The main core is made with a combination of carbon-graphite and solid aluminum.
Length
Yep, this measures eight feet in length and is ideal for those of you who are aiming to go after some larger fish. For the record, the aluminum section measures 48 inches and the carbon-graphite section 36 inches.
Features
It is recommended to go with the company’s SlipTip as the heads are sold separately. However, what is included is one standard band (though you can add additional bands if you like).
Handling
In addition to everything else, which also makes this tool effective is the fact that it is equipped with a well-designed grip.
Portability
As was hinted at, this does come in two different pieces. Due to this, it is much easier to transport. At eight feet in length, this is important as it would be a nuisance to transport otherwise.
Overall
This really is a tremendous design that is all but perfect for heavy-duty spearfishing. It may be a little too long for some of you, though, so be sure you can handle it.
3. JBL Shaka
Brilliant technology was implemented
Features unidirectional carbon weave construction
Equipped with a heat shrink grip
It could have more power
This is yet another model that is incredibly stiff thanks to its carbon fiber construction. The seven-foot length is also going to be suitable for most of you reading this.
Read moreMaterials
Though this could have had a little more power, the construction is extremely solid. This is mostly thanks to the unidirectional carbon weave that ensures there is very little flex for enhanced transfer power.
Length
In total, this measures seven feet and it can’t be shortened. This is a bit of a jump for those who are used to six feet models, so do be aware of that.
Features
Past the fact that this has been precision machined for additional rigidity, it also comes equipped with a band that you can utilize during operation.
Handling
Being equipped with a heat shrink grip, you should have little to no difficulties when it comes to handling and maneuvering this sucker.
Portability
Yes, this does come with a carrying bag and it also breaks down into three individual pieces. This combination makes this a perfect option for travel.
Overall
This is just another exceptional carbon fiber pole spear. What more would you expect? About the only “gripe” is that it could have been designed with more power (but that is about it).
4. Headhunter Predator Pole Spear
It is a two-piece design
It is overflowing with quality
Comes with a slip tip and power band
Some users have had slight performance issues
This is a top-dollar model and, for the most part, it lives up to its high price tag. Be wary, though, at over nine feet in total length, this thing is a monster underwater.
Read moreMaterials
Being designed with a composite back half and a carbon fiber front half, this is another hybrid design. One user even noted that this was the highest quality spear they had ever used.
Length
Yeah, this thing is just a monster and there is no reason to sugarcoat it. It officially measures 111 inches (which is over nine feet) and simply may be too large for you.
Features
In addition to the pole, you really get a kit of items. This includes a slip tip system, power band and retaining band kit. The tip, also, secures very well to the end of the pole.
Handling
The extra-long length of this model naturally makes it harder to handle and control. Though it can obliterate larger fish, you will need the control to handle it.
Portability
Thankfully, this breaks down into two pieces. If this was not the case then this would probably be straight-up impossible to transport.
Overall
Headhunter certainly designed a model for users who did not want to mess around while spearfishing. There really is not a better way to describe this than to say it is a beast, plain and simple.
5. ScubaMax Travel Pole Spear
Designed with enhanced hydrodynamics
Can be broken down into three pieces
Features hardened stainless steel tines
It is only six feet in length
Like so many other of the best pole spears on the market, this model is optimized for travel as it can be broken down into three separate pieces. The pole itself also has little to no flex.
Read moreMaterials
No, this is not made of carbon fiber. Instead, the pole is constructed with hard anodized aluminum. It is extremely durable, rigid and is machine swaged for improved hydrodynamics.
Length
At six feet in length, this is pretty much the minimum for those of you who want to fish for somewhat larger species. Anything smaller would just be too ineffective.
Features
Provided with your purchase is a five-prong paralyzer tip. Additionally, a sling is also equipped. But, even better is the fact that this sling can be fully adjusted and that it is made with surgical rubber.
Handling
For the most part, you should not have to worry about the handling of this too much. But, you could always wear gloves if you wanted to.
Portability
All things considered, this is one of the most compact pole spears on this list. Each section (this breaks down to three pieces) measures 24 inches (two feet) for optimal compactness.
Overall
Some of you will simply not settle for a six-foot model and that is okay. But, do be aware that this design is still incredibly component thanks to its above-average construction.
6. Scuba Choice Carbon Fiber Pole Spear
It will break down for travel
Comes with a black rubber sling
It is made with carbon fiber
The rivets can rust if you are not careful
In addition to the fact that this sports a carbon fiber core, it comes with a well-designed black rubber sling. Overall, this will be a compelling option to just about anyone.
Read moreMaterials
Even though this is made with durable carbon fiber, a few users have had issues with various portions of this pole succumbing to rust.
Length
A seven-foot pole is pretty much the perfect happy medium. It is not too long to be impossible to handle but is also not too short to be ineffective against larger fish species.
Features
The tip that this comes with is not likely to break. Additionally, a black rubber sling is also equipped.
Handling
This is another pole spear that you really should not have too tough of a time handling. It may take some time for you to get accustomed to it, though, if you are new to this sort of thing.
Portability
As with so many other models on the market, you will be able to break this down into different pieces when you need to pack it away or travel with it.
Overall
In terms of price, this is one of the cheaper carbon fiber pole spears that you will find. It is incredibly solid, for the most part, but is not 100 percent flawless in its design.
7. JBL Breakdown Polespear
Can be collapsed to 26 inches
The middle section can be removed
Easy to handle and maneuver
Not the strongest out there
The thread can succumb to corrosion
Now, this option right here is not made with carbon fiber and, instead, sports an aluminum core. As it can break down into multiple pieces, though, it is virtually perfect for travel.
Read moreMaterials
The construction is not perfect here as some users have noted that the threads can corrode and that the tapered section can bend. With that said, the hard anodized aluminum utilized is far from pathetic.
Length
With all the pieces connected, this measures six feet in length. However, you can actually remove the middle section, if you wanted, to make this even shorter.
Features
Not only does this come with a black surgical rubber sling (that can be adjusted for your convenience) but it also comes with a single paralyzer spear point.
Handling
One of the advantages of the smaller frame is the fact that this is fairly easy to handle and utilize while you are underwater.
Portability
The good news is this breaks down into three pieces and comes with a carrying case. Yet, the bad news is this same case is pretty cheap in its construction. Let’s just say that it is cheap vinyl that will probably not last too long.
Overall
Really, this is a middle of the pack option (in regard to its quality and price). This is not to say it is poorly made and, instead, just refers to the fact that there are superior designs out there.
8. MAKO Spearguns Pole Spear
It includes a paralyzer tip
Will break down compactly
Offers a smooth release
Not the best for experienced users
Not versatile in the tips it accepts
For the most part, this is an excellent option for those of you who are just starting out. It is certainly far from bad but it is probably going to disappoint experienced spearfishermen.
Read moreMaterials
If you have a long history of spearfishing and have seen your fair share of these spears then you may not love the construction of this one. It is made with anodized aircraft-grade aluminum but is certainly not the best.
Length
At just over 6.5 feet in length, this will be ideal for most of you. Keep in mind, however, that this comes equipped with three interchangeable sections (so this length can be adjusted a bit).
Features
While this comes with a power band and a five-prong paralyzer tip, you should know that the threads are custom made. What this means is you will have a hard time finding compatible tips if you wanted different ones.
Handling
A quick note here is that this model does not feature knurling in the gripping area. However, this is not typically an issue if you are using your bare hands.
Portability
Yep, this is another option that is going to be suitable for travel. It is a three-piece design that can be broken down to 27.5 inches in total length.
Overall
While the custom threads are a bit disappointing if you enjoy your fair share of tip varieties, this is still a really good starter option for the right people.
9. Innovative Scuba Concepts Pole Spear
Five lengths can be chosen from
Multiple tips are available
Comes with a durable rubber sling
The sling is not the best
Not the best construction
Even though fiberglass pole spears can get a bit of a bad rap, there are some people out there who do enjoy them. And, as you guessed, that is exactly what this model is right here.
Read moreMaterials
The cat was just let out of the bag as yes, this is made with fiberglass. While not the most ideal material, it makes this model easy to fire.
Length
At its peak, this can measure six feet in length. However, what makes it versatile is the ability it has to adjust to different lengths (it can even shrink to only 20 inches).
Features
Overall, the design of the equipped sling is good but not great. Also, there are plenty of different tips that you can choose between.
Handling
Depending on the length you adjust this to, the handling can be incredibly simple here. The shaft, as is, is also not too bad to grip and hang onto.
Portability
As alluded to, this can adjust to different lengths and you can utilize this feature when you need to transport it. Just shorten it to 20 inches and you will be ready to rock.
Overall
The sheer fact that this is made with fiberglass will scare some of you off. However, its unique adjustable shaft is really brilliant when you think about it.
10. Scuba Choice Fiberglass Pole Spear
Comes with a carrying bag
Includes a paralyzer tip
Ideal for beginners
Really short in length
Somewhat cheap construction
Talk about a pole spear that is suitable for beginners? How about this bad boy right here? It is only five feet in length and is made out of fiberglass.
Read moreMaterials
Just be prepared to attack smaller fish with this fiberglass pole. After all, semi-large fish will pretty much destroy the tip.
Length
For many of you, five feet is just not going to be enough. But, as with the construction, this just means that this must be limited to hunting smaller fish species.
Features
Many reviewers have noted that the elastic sling could have been engineered better. In spite of this, it mostly suffices and a three-prong paralyzer tip is also included.
Handling
Due to the fact that the metal connection point is slightly raised, it can catch your hand when you release it. As such, you may want to handle this with gloves on.
Portability
In addition to being short at its full length, this can also break down into multiple pieces. Oh yeah, and a storage bag is also included with your purchase.
Overall
For the right users, this will be a good option. It seems incredibly flawed but it really is not. Instead, it is simply limited in a plethora of ways.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
Without question, this section is the most important in this entire guide.
As you probably noticed if you took the time to go through the above list, pole spears are typically made with fiberglass, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Out of the three, fiberglass is the cheapest and probably weakest material. Due to the fact that fiberglass is not quite as stiff as other materials and because it is not as robust, it tends to lack optimal power transfer and the durability of the other materials.
Taking a bit of a step up from fiberglass is aluminum. While aluminum poles will add a bit of extra weight which can make them slower underwater, this same weight adds excellent stopping power. Oh, and for additional protection, you will often see poles made out of anodized aluminum (for enhanced resistance to corrosion).
Of course, the juggernaut of all these materials is carbon fiber. If you want the best performance then you may want to stick with carbon fiber. Past the fact that this material has greater tensile strength than steel, it will also not add that much weight to the pole. Oh, and carbon fiber models also tend to excel in stiffness.
As a bit of a side note, if you are looking for models that implement different materials in the same design then know that these do exist (they are known as hybrids).
Size
This all comes down to the length of the model that you go with.
For pole spears, you will not want to overlook their physical lengths. This is as important a factor as any and the reason is the length will dictate how much range you will have. Typically, these tools will be offered with lengths anywhere between five to nine feet. If you are a beginner, you may want to opt for models that are a bit shorter. After all, eight and nine footers can be downright difficult to handle if you have no experience.
But, what you also need to take into consideration is where you will be fishing and what type of fishing you will be doing. If you know that you will be in close quarters and that you will not have a ton of room to work with, go with something a bit shorter. However, if you are surrounded by nothing but open water, bigger may be better. Also, it may be easier to catch more meaningful fish this way.
Of course, would it not be great if pole spears offered you different lengths for different situations? As you may have guessed, there are indeed designs on the market that will offer just that. These options are much more versatile in nature, which is nice if you plan to partake in different spearfishing environments.
Features
There are just a few features that you will want to keep in mind here.
There are two main features that need to be covered here. To start, let’s talk about rubber bands for a second. No, not the tool that can be used to hold items together but the sling that is often equipped on pole spears. Not all models out there will come with this (so you may have to buy it separately). Either way, you may want to look for rubber bands that are thicker for more power (if you need the extra power) and those that can be adjusted.
The other important feature is the spear tip and this is used to actually penetrate the fish. Much like with the rubber bands, some sellers will include a tip with your purchase and others will require them to be bought separately.
But, you need to know that there are several different types of spear tips that you can choose from. For example, you have prong tips which tend to be the most popular, flopper tips which are often found on spearguns, and slip tips which are really nice when you are hunting fish with softer flesh.
Ease of Use
Not all models will handle the same so you may want to prioritize the ones that do so well.
Carrying around a long spear underwater does sound like sort of a hassle, does it not? While only those who have actually experienced spearfishing can comment on how much they enjoyed doing so, this can be made either easier or harder depending on the model you get. And, the first aspect you will want to consider is the grip. Some poles will have virtually no grip and this can make it harder to control them.
Meanwhile, many other models may come with uniquely designed grips and “handles”. It all really comes down to the engineering of the particular model but you have tapered designs and even those with ridges. Both of these styles are nice but what is really nice about tapered designs is you can achieve a plethora of different grip positions.
But, do not forget about the length of the actual pole. Yes, that will come into play for this section, as well. When you think about it, naturally, a nine-foot pole will be harder to control and maneuver than a five-foot pole will be. This is another reason why it is often recommended for beginner spearfishermen to start with shorter poles.
Portability
Given the fact you will have to travel with your model, it should be portable.
Unless you live on a waterfront, you will need to transport your pole spear in order to use it. What this naturally means is you should look for a model that is portable. Do you want the good news? Most manufacturers in the world realize this and will oftentimes optimize their pole spears to be easily traveled with. And, there are two manners in which they make this possible.
Firstly, nearly all models on the market will be able to be broken down into multiple pieces or will be able to be shortened altogether. Either way, this makes them much easier to carry around. While their weight is not going to change, trying to carry around an eight-foot pole will be a nuisance. But, if that same eight-foot pole could be broken down into three pieces that each was the same length, the situation would be made a lot easier.
Secondly, sellers will typically provide you with a dedicated carrying bag for their pole spears. And, even though this is not mandatory as you could always account for a carrying bag yourself, this can make things more convenient for you.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Materials Size Features Ease of Use 
Portability 
The first and most important decision you need to make is which material you want your model to be made out of. In the world of pole spears, fiberglass, aluminum, and carbon fiber are often the materials of choice. And, all three of them offer different performances. Overall, most would agree that carbon fiber is the superior of the three. Meanwhile, fiberglass is probably the weakest.
After you have figured out the material you want, you will need to shift your focus to the length. These types of weapons can come in various lengths (anywhere from five to nine feet, typically). Your skill level and where you plan to spearfish will be two very important factors when deciding upon the length. Oh, and it is never a bad idea to look for models that offer varying lengths.
At their core, these weapons are pretty simple. But, there are two important features that need to be discussed in this section. This is alluding to the rubber band and the tip. Both of which are important for performance reasons. Of course, be aware that there are some sellers out there who will not include either with your purchase. That is okay because, thankfully, you can always buy the ones you want separately (granted they are compatible).
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are six-millimeter threads not good?
At the end of the pole, there will be a thread present to install tips into. The most common thread size is six millimeters. However, this thread size has often been regarded as weak. But, buyers often prefer buying models with this thread size as it allows for greater compatibility. The good news is some engineers will be able to utilize this thread size with more strength (through certain strategies).
q: Can you use other tips on your spear?
This question plays right off of the last one. Yes, the beauty of spear tips is they can be used on other pole spears. But, as you should know, not all of them will be compatible with every single pole spear in the world. You need to ensure that the thread size of the tip and the pole match up. For the record, there are adapter kits available and these can help to alleviate the issue of incompatible tips.
q: Why do you need a bag for spearfishing?
It was noted earlier that some sellers will include carrying bags with your purchase. But, these will often be used solely for the included pole spear. This is nice and all but will you need a bag for other items? It all depends on what you plan to spearfish with but it may in your best interest to simply invest in a bag for all your equipment. Quite frankly, if you choose to do this then you do not need to worry about buying pole spears that come with their own bags (though these can still be handy).
q: How dangerous is it to use them?
Given the fact that these are designed to be weapons, there is a certain danger in utilizing them. What you need to do is respect the weapon for what it is and to never, ever use it like a toy (as it could easily kill someone). You should also keep a few safety tips in mind.
For starters, know your limits and never spearfish in depths of water that you can’t handle. Secondly, never spearfish when there are other people around (unless you are with someone and you always know where they are). And, lastly, if you can’t retrieve the fish you shoot, do not risk death going to get it.
q: Do you need a license to spearfish?
To err on the side of caution, you should own a fishing license if you are going to be spearfishing (if you are required to need one age-wise). Now, as far as the legality of this sort of thing, there are areas that may ban spearfishing. So, you should always ensure that the body of water in which you are going to has been allowed such activities.
q: Is there an ideal time to spearfish?
The reality of the situation is you can go whenever you feel like it. However, you may have more success in either the fall or spring. For the former, there is typically a wider variety of fish that will be easily accessible. And, for the latter, the water tends to be less tense which can make things a bit easier.
Now, you can still spearfish in the summer but you should do so later in the day. Right in the heart of the afternoon will probably not yield the results you are looking for. Then again, it is always fun to try even if you do not catch any fish.
