The inaugural World Freshwater Spearfishing Championship (WFSC) took place on May 18-19, 2017, in Lake Mead, Las Vegas, Nevada. Divers from 13 countries competed across four divisions: Men’s, Masters, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles. A total of 67 competitors participated, with 38 in the Men’s division alone.
Over the two days, competitors removed a significant amount of invasive fish species from the lake. Day 1 focused on striped bass, with 145 fish caught. Day 2 targeted carp, resulting in an impressive haul of 1603 carp, totaling over 10,600 pounds (4,818 kg). All game fish were used for personal consumption, while the carp were processed into pet food.
The event also saw two new world records set by female competitors.
For information on the next WFSC, visit the website and look for the New Zealand 2019 event details. The organizers extend their gratitude to all supporters and sponsors who contributed to the championship’s success.
The event had 4 divisions: Mens, Masters, Womens, and Mixed Doubles.
- MENS: 38 divers, 16 teams, form 13 countries
- MASTERS: 13 divers, 5 teams, from 7 countries
- WOMENS: 10 divers, 3 teams, from 6 countries
- MIXED TEAMS: 10, from 7 different countries
- JUNIORS: 6, from 3 different countries
- 2 world records were set by women.
Individual
Big Striper
- Men’s Division: Ian Warnock 2.72
- Masters Division: Gunther Pfrengle 1.94
- Women’s Division: Kelsey Albert 1.68
- Juniors Division: Jordy Wilson 2.1
Big Carp
- Men’s Division: Peter Riddle 24.8
- Masters Division: Kevin Ranger 15.84
- Women’s Division:
- Samantha Mase 16.2; Pending World Record, Spear Gun
- Magali Cote 11.28; Pending world record, Polespear
- Juniors Division: Kelston McGuire 10.44
