Thinking about taking a plunge

[Big AH]

Alright...my physical therapist got me thinking about trying freediving. He actually scubas, but I figure I'll start on the cheaper end and see how that goes. I recently picked up some used gear. I have a good mask and snorkel, fins, bootys, and gloves. No speargun yet, since I am still a little unsure if I can even pull this off.

This year I plan to get in the water near a rig off the coast of Louisiana. I figured I should see if I can handle the fear factor. I am a good swimmer and not scared of the water...I am just aware that panic can affect anyone given the right circumstances. So I thought a quick dip in the drink would give me a good idea of my ability to handle it.

So any advice out there and what else do I need??? Do I need a dive flag? I plan to have at least one guy on the boat. Although diving with a partner would be better, can I get in the water alone? Can I get in with regular bathing shorts instead of any suit? Should I have some type of stick to keep barracuda and sharks at bay???

Obviously, I have no idea what I am doing. Any pointers?

Thanks
Dan

[fishfighter]

Dan,check out www.spearboard.com.There are all kinds of info there and there is a chapter here in Louisiana on that web site.Now as far as freediving and by yourself,that is not the best thing to do.Alos,you will need 100'-200' of floating rope and a jug on the end.Why?Becouse of the ripping tide we have some days and that acts as a life line.

Maybe we can get together on a trip.I will need to pick up a gun too,but I love to go for a dip out there too.Best dip was with a whaleshark one trip.Supper cool!That make life as I knew it big compared to life offshore before.Nothing has ever came as close as that other then swiming with a 5' sea turtle once which was cool too!

Oh,my wife will not get in the water out there.Guess she thinks I will start chumming.LOL

[bletort]

I'm a regular oilrig freediver. Most I know that are made the switch from scuba to freediving and never went back. With Scuba, you hunt fish. With FD, the fish come to you. You have to be in fairly good shape, particularily how your body utilizes oxygen. You can dive alone, but its not recommended. Its good to have a dive flag, but we seldom do. It just take LOTS of time to learn to relax and get up to 60-70' regular dives with good bottom time.

Get ready for the worst addiction and full fish boxes...that I can guarantee you!