When I first got my assignment details for this job, it mentioned spear fishermen using "decoys", which I thought must surely be an error. Decoys are for duck hunting and turkey hunting - not fishing. So, I was surprised to see that they actually do use decoys- beautiful, hand-carved, realistic decoys.
I've gone ice fishing before and truthfully did not see the attraction to sitting in a drafty "shanty" waiting for some unseen fish to happen along my lure. Had I actually caught one, I might have had more fun. With spearfishing, there is a visual connection to the fish you are trying to catch. And then when you see the one you want, you fling a spear at it, like some sort of indian hunter.
It is by far the most interesting style of fishing I have ever seen.
Do go read Greg Breining's description, which is far better than mine. Greg used to be a staff writer for the DNR's Conservation Magazine, and is especially gifted at writing about all things outdoors. Look for the photo slideshow again too, as it shows more details of the sport - like shots of those decoys I mentioned.
Oh, and for those not familiar, the "U.P." is Michigan's Upper Peninsula. What looks as though it should rightfully belong to Wisconsin, is a wonderfully wild piece of land brimming with outdoor adventure that somehow came to belong to Michigan. It is among my favorite places to escape to. If you go, try a "pasty" They are not gross.
NY Times Article
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