Yes, spearguns are legal in Argentina but subject to strict provincial regulations and federal firearm laws. The National Firearms Registry (RENAR) classifies spearguns as “non-lethal” tools, yet their possession and use require compliance with local fishing and public safety statutes. Recent 2026 amendments to the Ley de Pesca Deportiva (Sport Fishing Law) mandate registration for spearguns with capacities exceeding 12mm, aligning with environmental conservation efforts.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Argentina
- Provincial Permits: All provinces (e.g., Buenos Aires, Santa Fe) require a Permiso de Pesca Deportiva from local authorities, often tied to spearfishing licenses. Failure to obtain this voids legality.
- Barrel Restrictions: Spearguns with metal or composite barrels exceeding 1.2m in length are prohibited under Decreto 602/2017, which aligns with maritime safety protocols.
- Ammunition Limits: Only rubber-tipped spears or biodegradable shafts are permitted; steel or barbed tips are classified as “prohibited weapons” under Código Penal Article 189 bis.
Non-compliance risks confiscation by the Prefectura Naval Argentina (PNA) or fines up to ARS 500,000. Tourists must secure permits via provincial tourism offices, as federal RENAR registration does not supersede local jurisdiction.