When spearfishing, most people are stuck between a Hawaiian sling vs pole spear!
The most important decision you’ll make is what kind of tool you use. Hawaiian Slings and Pole Spears are two popular options.
But what’s the difference between them, and which is better for you?
With a Hawaiian Sling, you get a much better grip, and you can pull the spear shaft back more for more power. So, with more power, you catch more fish. A connector (spear holder) on the tubing will hold the shaft while you shoot.
It’s not as powerful as other spearfishing equipment, such as spear gun. But for the price, it’s a great one for beginners who don’t want to spend more money.
If you’re trying to decide which type of Hawaiian weapon to buy, look no further.
This guide on Hawaiian sling vs pole spear will help you decide which one suits your needs best!
Let’s take a look at each of these gear items and see which one might be right for you.
What is a Hawaiian Sling?
A Hawaiian Sling is a type of spear used to catch fish underwater. It consists of a long rubber tube (the sling) with a metal tip at one end. The other end of the sling is tied to a line or pole, usually about 6 feet in length.
How to use a Hawaiian Sling?
To use a Hawaiian Sling, you hold the rubber band (just like speargun band) in one hand and the pole or line in the other.
Pull the rubber tube back like a bow and arrow, and then thrust it forward quickly towards your target. The metal tip will penetrate the fish, making it easier to bring up out of the water.
For more clarity and practical, watch this video tutorial.
Hawaiian Slings are great for small- to medium-sized fish. It’s also great for spearfishing in shallow water or around coral reefs, where you can’t use larger spears or nets.
With practice, you can easily master the art of using a Hawaiian Sling.
What is a Pole Spear?
A Pole Spear is another popular spearfishing tool. It consists of a long pole with a spear tip at the end and is fired using a band or string attached to the base. This allows the user to maintain a good distance from the prey while still having good accuracy when striking.
If you’re looking for something a bit more powerful than a Hawaiian Sling, then a Pole Spear might be the perfect tool for you.
A Pole Spear has a sharp metal tip at the end of a metal pole, which is typically longer than the sling. The pole spear is designed for deeper waters, and is much more powerful than a Hawaiian Sling.
Pole spears are usually made of carbon fiber fiberglass, wood, graphite, or aluminum.
Which Should You Choose? Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear
Now that you know the differences between Hawaiian Slings and Pole Spears, it’s time to decide which one will best suit your needs.
Both the Hawaiian Sling and Pole Spear are great tools for hunting fish underwater.
- If you want an easy-to-use tool for shallow waters, then the Hawaiian Sling may be right for you.
- On the other hand, if you are looking for something more powerful to tackle deeper waters, then the Pole Spear is likely your best bet.
7 Differences between Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear
You’re probably familiar with Hawaiian Slings and Pole Spears if you are a spear fishing enthusiast. But what is the difference between them?
To help you decide further, here are 7 key differences between Hawaiian Slings and Pole Spears.
1. Bow and Arrow – The Hawaiian sling uses a rubber sling (which functions as the bow) to propel your spear tip at high speeds towards your prey. The pole spear has no such device, so it is up to you to propel it through water via swimming or some other means of propulsion.
2. Targeting Fish – With their large target areas, pole spears excel in targeting fish that are located deep below the surface of the water column that cannot be seen from above; because they require less precision than hawaiian slings, they also work well when fishing in turbid waters where visibility may be limited
3. Length of Spear – A pole spear can have an entire shaft length of more than six feet which enables you to cast it farther distances when compared to a hawaiian sling
4. Handles on Sling – The handles on most hawaiiian slings can rotate around the shaft making different casting styles possible
5. Fishing Depths – Unlike the Hawaiian sling, the pole spear’s mechanism ensures that the spear head remains in position after every thrust
6. Durability –Hawaiian slings are typically made of zinc and silver, while pole spear materials are plastic.
7. Price – Hawaiin slings are typically cheaper than pole spears
Pros and cons of Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear
Pros of Hawaiian Sling
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Offers precise shots, beneficial for targeting specific fish
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Longer range than a Pole Spear due to the long pole
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Rubber sling assists in propelling the spear tip with accuracy
Cons of Hawaiian Sling
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May require more skill to use effectively
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Not ideal for larger prey
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The complexity of the mechanism may not suit all users
Pros of Pole Spear
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Traditional and straightforward design, easier to handle
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More suitable for larger game due to the sturdier build
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Typically more forceful impact on prey
Cons of Pole Spear
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Shorter range, which may limit the types of fish you can target
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Less accuracy compared to a Hawaiian Sling
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The metal tip without a rubber sling may reduce precision
Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear – Which is right for beginners?
In the world of spearfishing, it can be difficult to know which tool is right for you.
It all comes down to personal preference when it comes to choosing between Hawaiian Slings and Pole Spears.
If you’re just starting out in the world of spearfishing, I personally recommend giving both tools a try before deciding which is right for you. Both tools offer unique advantages, so it’s worth experimenting to find which one fits your needs the best.
Why to use Hawaiin Sling for Spearfishing? 5 Reasons
If you’re an avid spearfisher, you may be wondering whether you should use a Hawaiian Sling or a Pole Spear for your next fishing trip. To help you make the decision, let’s take a look at why a Hawaiian Sling is a great choice for spearfishing.
Here are 5 reasons why you should consider using a hawaiian sling as your spearfishing weapon of choice:
- 1) A hawaiian sling provides more power than a pole spear;
- 2) A hawaiian sling can be used in various water conditions;
- 3) It’s easier to find something to hunt with a hawaiian sling than it is with other weapons like bow and arrow and rubber slings;
- 4) The range of the hawaiiin sling depends on where and how far back you pull it while still keeping control over it;
- 5) One-on-one combat against another person has been proven to be effective when using a hawaiiin sling.
4 Tips when using a Hawaiian Sling
Here are four tips for using a Hawaiian Sling:
- 1. Start with a smaller sling size. The smaller the sling size, the easier it will be to control and aim your spear tip.
- 2. Use both hands when loading the sling. This will help improve your accuracy and distance when launching your spear.
- 3. Aim for the head of the fish. Aiming for the head will reduce the chance of missing your target and also help you land larger fish with ease.
- 4. Practice makes perfect! Before heading out into the open water, practice shooting your sling in shallow water. This will help you get familiar with how your sling works and improve your accuracy before you go out on your next fishing trip.
By following these four tips, you can become an expert at using your Hawaiian Sling and be sure to snag any fish you are after!
What to look for in when buying a Hawaiian Sling?
When shopping for a Hawaiian Sling, the first thing you should consider is what type of spear tip you want. You can find a Hawaiian Sling with either a sharp, spear-shaped tip or a rubber sling with a bow and arrow-style tip.
Both styles work well for fishing, but depending on the type of fish you are trying to catch, one may be better suited for the job.
The next consideration is the length of the Hawaiian Sling. Generally, a Hawaiian Sling should be long enough to reach the fish, while also being short enough to allow you to maneuver it easily underwater. The longer the sling, the further out you can reach, but the shorter the sling, the more maneuverable it is.
Lastly, you should look at the quality of the Hawaiian Sling. The construction materials used to make the sling should be durable enough to withstand frequent use. If possible, try to find a sling that has been tested and approved by a professional angler. This will ensure you get a quality product that will last you for years.
By taking all these things into consideration when selecting your Hawaiian Sling, you can be sure you get the best one for your needs. With the right Hawaiian Sling, you will be able to quickly and efficiently bring in your catch!
Why buy a Hawaiian Sling?
When it comes to Bahamas spearfishing, spearguns are not allowed to use. So, you may be wondering which hunting gear to choose between Hawaiian Sling and a Pole Spear.
In order to make the right decision for your needs, let me explain that!
A Hawaiian Sling is popular among Bahamas spearfishers because of its affordability and portability. Since it is light and small, it can easily fit into any bag or backpack making it a great choice for those who are travelling.
So if you’re looking for an economic and easy-to-travel-with spearfishing tool, then a Hawaiian Sling is a great option for you. With its impressive power and accuracy, you can be sure to have a successful fishing trip in the Bahamas.
Bottom Line – Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear
So, what is the right choice between Hawaiian Slings vs Pole Spears? Well, it really depends on your preference and the type of fishing you plan to do. If you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to use, a Hawaiian Sling is a great option.
But if you’d like to have greater range and accuracy, a Pole Spear is probably the way to go. It all comes down to personal preference.
Make sure you choose the right spear tip and rubber sling for your needs and enjoy a successful fishing trip!
FAQs – Hawaiian Sling vs Pole Spear
Who invented the Hawaiian sling?
The Hawaiian Sling is a type of underwater fishing tool that was invented by Alec Kramarenko in the mid-1930s. It is composed of a rubber sling and a spear tip. The tool is used by anglers to shoot fish underwater by using a bow and arrow motion.
The Hawaiian Sling is a popular choice for those looking for an easy-to-use, low-cost option for fishing. Spearfishing enthusiasts also prefer it, as it requires no additional gear and can go deeper than pole spears.
Pole spears are more commonly used by advanced fishermen as they require a higher level of skill and accuracy to use properly.
Use Hawaiian Slings or Pole Spears safely and appropriately to make the most of your fishing experience.
Is a pole spear better than a Hawaiian sling?
Pole spears are typically longer and feature a spear tip mounted on the end of a pole that is thrust forward manually. Anglers believe they are better than Hawaiian Slings since you can accurately aim them to use in deep water.
How do you spear fish with a Hawaiian sling?
To spearfish with Hawaiin sling, you need to equip yourself with a Hawaiian sling and spear tip, which is essentially a combination of a bow and arrow, and a rubber sling. It consists of a tube connected to a handle, with a rubber sling inside and a spear tip on the outside. The spear tip is attached to a fishing line, which you use to catch your fish.
To use the Hawaiian sling, you must hold the handle with one hand and pull back the rubber sling with the other. Aim at the fish and release the sling to fire the spear tip at the target.
Can you use a Hawaiian sling in California?
The answer is yes. While Hawaiian Slings are currently not allowed in the state, the regulations are constantly changing and there are some places where they are permitted. However, if you plan to go spearfishing in California, it’s best to check with local authorities before doing so.
