Yes, spearguns are legal in Peru but subject to strict regulations under the Ley N° 29763 (Forest and Wildlife Law) and Decreto Supremo N° 004-2014-MINAGRI. Recreational use is permitted with a hunting license, while commercial spearfishing requires additional permits from SERFOR (Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre). Recent 2026 amendments mandate electronic licensing for all speargun users to enhance traceability.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Peru
- Licensing Requirements: A valid hunting license issued by SERFOR is mandatory for recreational spearfishing. Commercial operators must secure a Permiso de Aprovechamiento de Recursos Hidrobiológicos.
- Prohibited Areas: Spearguns are banned in national parks, marine protected areas (e.g., Reserva Nacional de Paracas), and within 5 nautical miles of shore to protect biodiversity.
- Equipment Restrictions: Only manual or elastic-powered spearguns are permitted; pneumatic or firearm-based devices are classified as illegal weapons under Decreto Legislativo N° 1106.