## What is a Bang Stick in Scuba Diving?
A bang stick is a type of spearfishing device that is used to stun or kill fish underwater. It is typically used by scuba divers who are hunting large fish, such as tuna, marlin, and sharks. Bang sticks are designed to deliver a powerful shockwave that can knock out or even kill a fish instantly.
### How do Bang Sticks Work?
Bang sticks are typically made of metal or plastic and are designed to be loaded with a blank cartridge. When the trigger is pulled, the cartridge fires, sending a shockwave through the water. The shockwave can travel up to 10 feet (3 meters) in all directions, and it can stun or kill fish that are within range.
### Are Bang Sticks Legal?
The use of bang sticks is illegal in many parts of the world, including the United States. In the United States, the use of bang sticks is regulated by the Lacey Act, which prohibits the use of any device that can be used to take fish in a manner that is not sporting.
### Why are Bang Sticks Banned?
There are a number of reasons why bang sticks are banned in many parts of the world. First, bang sticks are considered to be inhumane. They can cause unnecessary pain and suffering to fish, and they can also damage the fish’s flesh. Second, bang sticks can be dangerous to use. They can misfire or explode, and they can also cause serious injuries to the user or to other divers. Third, bang sticks can damage the marine environment. The shockwave from a bang stick can damage coral reefs and other marine life.
### Alternatives to Bang Sticks
There are a number of alternatives to bang sticks that are available to scuba divers who are hunting large fish. These alternatives include:
Spearfishing: Spearfishing is a traditional method of hunting fish underwater. Spearfishing involves using a spear to impale the fish. Spearfishing is a more selective method of fishing than using bang sticks, and it is also more humane.
Harpoons: Harpoons are another type of spearfishing device. Harpoons are similar to spears, but they have a barbed tip that helps to secure the fish once it has been impaled. Harpoons are typically used to hunt large fish, such as sharks and marlin.
Nets: Nets can be used to catch fish in a variety of ways. Scuba divers can use nets to catch fish by setting them in a location where fish are likely to pass by. Nets can also be used to catch fish by surrounding them and then closing the net.
### Conclusion
Bang sticks are a type of spearfishing device that is used to stun or kill fish underwater. They are typically used by scuba divers who are hunting large fish, such as tuna, marlin, and sharks. Bang sticks are illegal in many parts of the world, including the United States. There are a number of alternatives to bang sticks that are available to scuba divers who are hunting large fish. These alternatives include spearfishing, harpoons, and nets.