Coatesman's Spearfishing & Waterman's Blog

A-Grade Conditions on the KZN North Coast | Testing the NEW Coatesmans Unicolor Camo Rollergun.

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Fri, 8 May 2026 07:05:00 +0200

Testing the NEW Coatesmans Unicolor Camo Rollergun

Every now and then the North Coast gives you one of those rare proper A-Grade days that reminds you why we put so much time into diving this coastline.

This trip was right in the middle of summer up on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, and the conditions were honestly ridiculous. Flat sea, warm blue water, and visibility that looked more like somewhere tropical than the North Coast of South Africa. If you dive here often, you’ll know how uncommon that really is. Usually there’s a bit of colour in the water, current, swell, or something making life difficult. But on this day, everything lined up perfectly.

Being the weekend, my good mates Warren and Mark joined me on my C Ski-444, the DEVILFISH. And we launched out of Salmon Bay in Ballito just after first light. From there we made the run north towards Tinley Manor, probably around 20km or so up the coast, looking for couta.

The ocean looked fishy from the start. Clean water, bait around, and good current. it just felt right. We spent a good amount of time looking for Spanish Mackerel, but despite the conditions being absolutely perfect, the couta never really arrived. That’s fishing though. Sometimes you can do everything right and still not find the fish you originally went searching for.

Luckily mother nature had other plans for us.

Instead of couta, we found big shoals of Queen Mackerel — Natal Snoek — moving through the area in good numbers. Once we got onto them, the action became pretty non-stop. Fish coming through clean in the blue water, good shot opportunities, and proper fun diving with mates in epic conditions. All three of us managed to get some really good fish.

For me personally, this day was also about getting some good video of my new Unicolor Camo carbon barrels.I was diving a 110 CSR3 single roller from the Unicolor Camo carbon barrel range, and honestly, the gun could not have performed better. Shot after shot went exactly where I wanted it to. The 110CSR3 is one of my favorite setups and the gun just felt completely dialed in from the start.

There’s always something satisfying about testing new gear in genuinely good conditions because you really get to see what it’s capable of. This wasn’t one of those difficult scratchy days where you’re forcing opportunities. The visibility allowed us to relax, hunt properly, pick our shots carefully, and really enjoy the diving.

And those are usually the days where you realise whether a gun setup is truly balanced or not.

This video is basically a full look into that session onboard the DEVILFISH on the North Coast. Amazing conditions, good fish, proper diving with good mates, and a chance to show the 110CSR3 doing exactly what it was designed to do.

The new Unicolor Camo range is available from 90cm all the way through to 130cm in both the CSR3 and CDR4 rollerguns.

If you’ve ever wondered what a real A-Grade North Coast dive day looks like, how a properly setup rollergun should shoot, or wanted to see the 110 CSR3 in action on pelagic fish, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.

Some days everything just comes together perfectly.

This was one of those days.

Coatesmans 2026 Catalogue

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:12:00 +0200

More Than a Brand - A Legacy

Founded in 2007, Coatesmans was born from a desire to perfect the art of spearfishing. Chris has been on a mission to build the best spearguns possible using roller technology, and has been on the forefront of speargun design and innovation for more than a decade.

What’s New for 2026?

This year we’re seriously stoked over the NEW Coatesmans Unicolor Camo XE Carbon range.

Featuring a custom grey camo design inspired by the Dogtooth Tuna (Gymnosarda unicolor), this barrel finish brings a clean, stealthy look with that grey tone. Each barrel is ultra-strong Rob Allen XE carbon barrel, with the trusted RA Vecta2 grip and mechanism.

Whether you’re looking at a CDR4, CSR3, or CSR3 Max, the new Unicolor Camo barrel is now available across the range — giving your setup a unique Coatesman touch.

What to Expect in the Coatesmans 2026 Catalogue

This year’s catalogue is stacked with the gear that watermen know and trust.
The CDR4 DEVILFISH Range remains a standout, with each model individually designed and tuned for its exact gun length and shaft diameter. No one-size-fits-all nonsense here.

You’ll find both the classic clear finish and the new Unicolor Camo XE Carbon range, showcasing the full spread of rollergun options for different hunting styles and target species.

From the CDR4 and CSR3 muzzles to kits, band combos, and full setup upgrades, the catalogue is built to help you dial your gun for the fish you’ve been dreaming about.

And when it comes to shafts, getting the right fit is everything. The correct shaft choice can be the difference between a great shot or a complete miss.

Then there’s the NEW DEVILSPIKE Series Slip Tips. Each hand-polished tip is precision CNC-machined for pinpoint accuracy, then heat-treated and hardened for maximum strength.

Beyond the guns, the 2026 catalogue is loaded with new gear from upgraded float like the Coates-Float Zambie V3 and Blackfin V9, designed to keep your fish safer from the taxman, to the tried and tested Coatesmans Flasher Discs that bring fish in close and keep them interested.

Need to keep your gun protected between sessions? The Coatesmans Speargun Socks are made from durable recycled stretch fabric and built to shield your setup from scratches, sun, dust, and the chaos inside a packed gun bag when traveling.

And then there’s the Coatesmans Apparel Line.

Our apparel is inspired by the DEVILFISH. Clean lines, premium fabrics, and technical comfort that you will love whether the ocean or chilling at home.

The 2026 Coatesmans Catalogue is packed with the best of what Chris builds, tests, and believes in. Find the setup that gets you properly amped for your next mission.

How to Rig and Load the CDR4 DEVILFISH

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sun, 8 Mar 2026 06:44:00 +0200

Coatesmans Double Roller Speargun | Field Manual

If you’ve just bought a CDR4 DEVILFISH, setting it up correctly is the key to getting the performance it was designed for.

In this guide, I walk through the full process of rigging and loading a double roller speargun — from installing the reel and routing the shooting line to tensioning the bands and loading the gun safely. Follow this setup and your CDR4 will remain clean, reliable, and ready for serious spearfishing.

Quick Guide: How to Rig and Load a Double Roller Speargun

To rig and load a double roller speargun like the CDR4 DEVILFISH, follow these steps:

Install the reel and run the reel line through the muzzle eye.
Insert the shaft and ensure the shooting line sits on top.
Attach the shooting line to the reel line using a Dyneema quick-release knot.
Route the shooting line through the muzzle guides and onto the line release.
Install the roller bands and align them along the barrel.
Pre-tension the bands in the correct sequence.
Load the rear band first onto the smaller fin, then the front band onto the larger fin.

Following the correct sequence ensures your roller speargun remains efficient, cleanly rigged, and reliable in the water.

What Comes with the CDR4 DEVILFISH

When you receive your CDR4 DEVILFISH, the core components are supplied ready to assemble.

You’ll have:

The CDR4 DEVILFISH speargun
A reel
A set of bands
A shaft
Shooting line already attached to the shaft

The setup process simply brings these components together into a clean, functional rig.

How to Install a Speargun Reel on the CDR4 DEVILFISH

The reel installation is intentionally straightforward.

The reel slides directly onto the mounting rail on the gun and locks into place with a simple forward push. Once installed, release the tension on the reel line and run the line forward through the muzzle eye.

At this stage, you should have the reel mounted securely with the line running cleanly through the front of the gun.

This forms the foundation of the entire rigging system.

How to Insert the Speargun Shaft on the CDR4 DEVILFISH

With the reel mounted, the next step is inserting the shaft.

Slide the shaft into the top handle mechanism and ensure the shooting line sits on top of the shaft. This positioning is important because it allows the line to run cleanly during the rigging process and prevents unnecessary tangling once the gun is loaded.

Once the shaft is seated properly, the next step is connecting the shooting line to the reel line.

How to Attach the Speargun Shooting Line on the CDR4 DEVILFISH

At the end of the shooting line you’ll find a Dyneema loop.

Rather than using clips, the CDR4 system uses a simple quick-release knot. This approach removes unnecessary hardware, eliminates rattle points, and creates a very strong connection that can still be undone quickly if needed.

To tie the knot:

Take the tag end of the line, leaving around 15–20cm of length.
Thread it through the Dyneema loop, and wrap it around three times.
Pull the loop through itself.
Tighten the knot firmly.

This knot is extremely reliable and can easily be tied or untied in the water. To release it, simply pull the tag end and the knot comes undone.

The simplicity of this system is intentional — strong, clean, and reliable.

How to Rig the Shooting Line on a Roller Speargun

Once the shooting line is connected to the reel line, it needs to be rigged correctly along the gun.

The line runs up through the inside of the muzzle and around the first triangle guide. From there it crosses over the top of the shaft before running underneath through the main groove between the rollers.

At this stage the line can pass on either side of the line guide. Both work equally well.

From there it runs down to the line release on the handle, back up and around the muzzle, repeated a few times.

Once the line is rigged correctly, tighten the reel slightly to remove any slack. Keeping the shooting line tight is important for maintaining a clean rig and preventing tangles.

How to Install the Bands on a Double Roller Speargun

With the shaft and line now rigged, the next step is installing the bands.

The bands simply slide into position through the CDR4 muzzle assembly. The design keeps the system compact and ensures the bands sit neatly in line with the barrel.

Once installed, the gun is ready to be pre-tensioned.

How to Pre-Tension the Bands on the CDR4 DEVILFISH

On the CDR4 DEVILFISH, the sequence is important.

Start with the top two rubbers, passing them through the middle of the lower bands. These connect to the first attachment points on the muzzle. It’s best to keep the attachment points facing upward so they remain easy to access.

When pulling the bands, it’s important to maintain some tension on both bands while attaching them. If only one is pulled, the other band can slip through the muzzle.

Once the first two bands are secured, the remaining bands attach to the top mounting points. After attaching them, flip the bands underneath so

everything sits parallel and aligned.

The result is a clean, low-profile setup with the bands lying flat along the barrel.

How to De-Tension the CDR4 DEVILFISH After Use

At the end of each dive day, it’s good to relax the bands.

To do this, bring the bands up over the top of the barrel so they face upward. Here you reverse the sequence to pre-tensioning the speargun. Hold both bands firmly, release the first one, then release the second, and slowly let them go.

This removes the stored tension and extends the life of the rubber.

How to Load the CDR4 DEVILFISH

The CDR4 DEVILFISH features two roller fins on the shaft — one slightly taller than the other.

This difference determines the loading order.

The bands closest to you load first onto the smaller rear fin. Once this is secure, the top bands load onto the larger front fin.

At first glance it may look like the bands sit in the way of the second loading point, but they move aside easily, allowing the second band to load smoothly.

Once loaded, the bands should sit neatly parallel with the handles tucked away between them.

How to Safely Unload the Roller Gun

When unloading a roller speargun, never simply release the bands.

The stored energy can cause them to snap forward at a high velocity, potentially damaging the muzzle or other components.

Instead, lower the bands slowly and under control.

This method protects the gun and ensures the bands last longer.

Watch the Full Setup Video

If you’d like to see the full process step-by-step, you can watch the complete walkthrough here:

New to Coatesmans: DARKMOON + HYDRA CAPS EDITION

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:57:00 +0200

Coatesmans headwear is built on two truths: the ocean gives nothing, and the dogtooth tuna reveals everything.

Every cap in this range comes from real moments — the kind that shape hunters.

The long drifts. The climb through the current.

The brutal lessons the Devilfish teaches without mercy.

And the deep, instinctive respect that grows from time spent in its world.

These caps don't shout. They carry presence —the quiet confidence of a diver who has been broken, rebuilt, and come back sharper.

The Darkmoon Active Snapback represents the moment before the rise — the charged stillness before a doggie bursts from the shadows, the razor-thin window where instinct and timing are everything.

The Unicolour Hydra Cap reflects the fish itself — the deceptive greys, the silent approach, the violent truth beneath the surface. Named for a fish once dismissed as “one colour,” yet now feared, respected and chased across oceans.

Together, these caps form the core of Coatesmans headwear:

clean lines, premium materials, hydrophobic technology, and understated logos that nod to the legacy of the DEVILFISH — not with noise, but with intent.

This is gear made for people who understand the ocean without needing to explain it.

Wear it before the hunt, after the hunt, and anywhere a life shaped by salt takes you.

Quiet strength. Clean design.

Built from the deep.

The New Coatesmans Double Roller Bundle Deal

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:59:00 +0200

Wrap up the year strong with the Coatesman’s Double Roller Bundle. Loaded with premium gear in one compact package, it maximizes your shipping and scores you a solid 20% saving.

With this bundle, you’ll upgrade your gun setup with the CDR4L Double Roller Muzzle, specifically crafted to fit standard 26.5mm ID Rob Allen speargun barrels. This lightweight double roller speargun muzzle enhances the gun’s balance in the water, thanks to its reduced weight. The CDR4L variant utilizes ultra-light ceramic bearings.

The CDR4L is perfect for 110, 120, and 130cm Rob Allen Spearguns equipped with the RA XE carbon barrels featuring 7.5mm shafts.

The Coatesmans Double Roller stands as the original offset double roller, boasting a unique roller setup that ensures proper alignment of the rubbers. Evolving over the past 7 years, this design has become the most technically advanced double roller available on the market.

The CDR4L comes complete with Easy Load Pretension Hooks for rubber pretensioning and an integrated line guide.

Paired in the bundle with the CDR4L is the new ultra-light Bluewater Sun Shirt. Crafted from lightweight, breathable 100% polyester, this shirt features DNS moisture-wicking fabric — a knit of micro-squares that enhances airflow and speeds up perspiration evaporation, keeping you dry and comfortable even in tropical heat.

Coatesmans Ultra-light Bluewater Sun Shirt

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:10:00 +0200

Stay cool, protected, and ready for action on every dive day. The Coatesmans Ultra-light Bluewater Sun Shirt is purpose-built for spearfishermen who spend long hours out on the boat or in the sun.

Crafted from lightweight, breathable 100% polyester, this shirt features DNS moisture-wicking fabric — a knit of micro-squares that enhances airflow and speeds up perspiration evaporation, keeping you dry and comfortable even in tropical heat.

Key Features:

Ultra Lightweight, breathable 100% polyester
DNS moisture-wicking fabric for cooling comfort
UV protection
Quick-drying and durable
Hooded long-sleeve design for full coverage
Designed for watermen

The New Single Roller & Flasher Bundle

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:11:00 +0200

Bringing you one of the best bundle deals to end this year off - the Single Roller + Flasher
Bundle. Packed with top gear all in one box, maximizing your shipping costs and still saving
you 20%.

With this bundle you will upgrade your gun setup with the CSR3 Single Roller Muzzl for Rob
Allen Spearguns. This ultra light weight single roller speargun muzzle is the lightest roller
muzzle with ceramic bearings on the market. This solves the issue with short roller guns being
muzzle heavy and eliminates the need for cuttlefish barrels or floatation on shorter guns.
The CSR3 has been specifically designed to be as compact and low profile as possible, using
14mm bands and 7mm shaft. Careful attention has been made to where the bands lie along the
barrel. Reducing the overall profile of the gun.

The CSR3 comes with the ‘Easy Load Pretension Hooks’ system. Eliminating any potential
snags common on the old mushroom anchor points. This also makes attaching and detaching
the rubbers simple and easy.

Paired in the bundle with the CSR3 is a 10-Pack of the Coatesmans Famous Flasher Discs.
These flasher discs work the best for attracting fish, especially when crafted together with the
South African “Buzz Bomb” flasher. This is a simple and easy to make flasher that works every
time. Watch Chris’s well-known video where he shows you in just a few minutes how to make
his tried and tested version of the “Buzz Bomb” spearfishing flasher.

Lastly, to finish the bundle off, is the new ultra-light Bluewater Sun Shirt. Crafted from lightweight, breathable 100% polyester, this shirt features DNS moisture-wicking fabric - a knit of micro-squares that enhances airflow and speeds up perspiration evaporation, keeping you dry and comfortable even in tropical heat.

Eli Olson's Top 10 Best/Favorite Spearfishing catches 2025

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 11:20:00 +0200

Eli Olson's Top 10 Best/Favorite Spearfishing catches 2025

Meet Eli Olson, a born-and-bred North Shore Oʻahu athlete whose reputation for charging heavy surf is matched only by his martial-arts discipline and all-in mindset. Growing up across from Three Tables and Waimea Valley, Eli balanced early days of surf, skate and dirt-bike competition with jiu-jitsu training — a foundation he built into a unique surf-stunt-martial mix.

Over the years he’s collected top regional honors, including a major win at the Local Motion “Surf Into Summer” event in Hawaii where he edged out big-name rivals. His dedication to pushing boundaries, in and out of the water, has built a formidable story of progression and grit.

In the video you’re about to watch, Eli brings that same intensity to the spearfishing world, delivering his top ten best shots captured with a very special speargun model : 120 CDR3 Step Up Carbon. While I’ve since moved on from that model, its legacy lives in each frame of this edit.

👉 Go check out the full video on YouTube now, take in the shots, feel the energy — and drop a comment to show Eli some props for the send.

Exploring the DEVILFISH Speargun Shooting Lines: Strength, Versatility, and Performance

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 15:49:00 +0200

The DEVILFISH series of speargun shooting lines from Coatesman's Spearfishing is designed to cater to the needs of advanced spearfisherman who demand strength, reliability, and performance in their gear. Available in three diameters—1.5mm, 1.7mm, and 1.9mm—these lines are crafted to handle various underwater hunting conditions with exceptional durability and usability.

Features and Benefits of the DEVILFISH Shooting Lines

Strength and Durability
Made with high-grade Dyneema, DEVILFISH lines boast impressive breaking strengths:
- 1.5mm: Perfect for smaller setups, offering a balance between lightness and strength, ideal for reef hunting.
- 1.7mm: A versatile option with enhanced durability, suitable for most spearfishing scenarios.
- 1.9mm: Engineered for bluewater hunting, this line provides maximum strength for taking on large pelagic species.
Ease of Use
The lines are pre-stretched with a double-braided core and cover, ensuring they maintain their shape and structural integrity. This design also makes the shooting line very stiff, improving handling and significantly reducing tangles.
Versatility
Whether you're targeting smaller reef fish or large pelagic species, the different diameters and breaking strengths allow you to tailor your setup for optimal performance. They are designed to work seamlessly with advanced setups like rollerguns, enhancing accuracy and reducing drag.
Cost-Effectiveness
The DEVILFISH shooting lines provide top-tier performance at a competitive price, making them a smart investment for spearfisherman who prioritize both quality and value.

Why Choose DEVILFISH Shooting Lines?

Chris Coates, a renowned expert in spearfishing and rollergun setups, ensures that each product in the DEVILFISH line meets the exacting standards of seasoned spearfisherman. With a focus on performance and innovation, these lines are not only durable but also designed for ease of use, allowing you to focus on the spearing without worrying about gear reliability.

Whether you're fine-tuning a high-performance rollergun or upgrading your standard speargun setup, the DEVILFISH shooting lines are an excellent choice. Backed by Coatesman's expertise and proven in challenging conditions, these lines are the go-to solution for serious spearfisherman.

For more details or to purchase, visit Coatesman’s online shop:

Braden Sherron - Unboxing a NEW BIG-FISH Speargun for Wahoo & Cubera! (CDR 140)

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:58:00 +0200

Unboxing 140 CDR4 DEVILFISH

Braden Sherron unboxes his new 140 CDR4 DEVILFISH
Check out his channel Braden Sherron or head over to his Instagram @BradenSherron

Coatesmans CDR4 Devilfish Speargun - Shore Dive Spearfishing 4K

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:00 +0200

Coatesmans CDR4 Devilfish Speargun - Shore Dive Spearfishing 4K

The goal of the DEVILFISH series was to create a speargun that could accurately shoot an 8mm shaft at high speed with one hand. To achieve this, the gun needed enough weight to counter the inertia of the heavy 8mm shaft. The Timber & Carbon construction adds both buoyancy and weight, providing the necessary weight to sufficiently blast the gun.

The DEVILFISH Timber & Carbon hybrid barrel is specifically designed for the CDR4 muzzle, with careful attention given to maintaining a low side profile. The result is an incredibly stable gun with all the utility of a standard rear-handled roller gun of the same size. Additionally, the Timber & Carbon construction is more cost-effective compared to full carbon barrels, offering greater durability and with the ease of use of the CDR technology. This makes the DEVILFISH an ideal everyday Bluewater speargun.

Spearfishing Dogtooth Tuna Madagascar | Coatesman's Devilfish Rodeo | Pa...

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Thu, 4 Apr 2024 10:16:00 +0200

Spearfishing Dogtooth Tuna Madagascar

Experience the thrill of Spearfishing Dogtooth Tuna Madagascar with Coatesman's famous Devilfish Rodeo. Join Chris Coates on an unforgettable spearfishing adventure as they explore the uncharted waters of Madagascar. Spearing Dogtooth Tuna in some of the most pristine spots on the planet. Don't miss out on the ultimate dogtooth spearing expedition. Come along for an epic bluewater spearfishing journey in search of that elusive Onefish.

Spearfishing Dogtooth Tuna In Madagascar - Coatesman's Devilfish Rodeo P...

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 13:53:00 +0200

Spearfishing Dog Tooth Tuna

Experience the thrill of spearfishing for giant Dogtooth Tuna off the coast of Madagascar with Coatesman's Devilfish Rodeo. Join Chris Coates and his friends on an unforgettable adventure as they explore the uncharted waters of Madagascar, spearing these incredible creatures in some of the most pristine spots on the planet. Don't miss out on the ultimate dogtooth spearing expedition. Come along for an epic bluewater spearfishing journey in search of that elusive Onefish.

Spearfishing Giant Dogtooth Tuna In Madagascar - Coatesman's Devilfish R...

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:18:00 +0200

Spearfishing Giant Dogtooth Tuna In Madagascar

Spearfishing for giant Dogtooth Tuna off Madagascar's Coatesman's on his famous Devilfish Rodeo is a spearfishing trip not to miss. Spearing this mostly unexplored region makes for some of the most incredible dogtooth tuna spearfishing on the planet. Most of the spots on this trip had never been speared before, making this the ultimate dogtooth spearing adventure you could ever have. Come bluewater spearfishing with Chris Coates and friends as they explore the far corners of Madagascar for that Onefish.

26mm CDR3 Double Roller for Ermes, Soriatec and Pathos Spearguns

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 8 May 2023 09:15:00 +0200

26mm Double Roller for Soriatec, Ermes and Pathos Spearguns

NEW & IMPROVED Coatesman's 26mm ID Single & Double Roller Speargun Muzzles. Specifically designed to fit on 26mm ID Soriatec, Pathos & Ermes speargun barrels and comes with double barrels O-ring seals eliminating the need to plug the barrels.

So now you can build your own single or double rollers using a wide range of components from European manufacturers.

Visit: Coatesmans.com

#Pathos #pathoslaser #pathossniper #soriatec #sigalsub #ermessub #sigalsubspeargun #pescasub #spearfishing #spearo #pescasubmarina #pescasubacquea #pescasubmarinaespaña #pêchesousmarine #apnea #speargun

The New Ultra Light - CDR3L Coatesman's Double Roller Muzzle.

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 10:42:00 +0200

The Light CDR3L Coatesman's Double Roller

I have just released the newest version of my double roller the CDR3L. This new 'lighter' version is the same as the CDR3 but with smaller lighter bearings. This reduces the weight of the muzzle by 35g which significantly affects the buoyancy on spearguns using std Rob Allen railed barrels. Giving the same affect of either increasing the barrel length by 5cm or reducing a 7.5mm steel shaft by 10cm.

This improvement in buoyancy almost eliminates the need for cuttlefish barrels on the longer 120 & 130cm guns. This means that you have a well balanced speargun that is as sleek and manoeuvrable as a std Rob Allen 'pipe' gun, but with all the benefits of a powerful double roller.

With the CDR3L's weight similar to that of the std Rob Allen single roller, shorter guns like the 100cm & 110cm are now way more practical options than before. So now you can easily hand load guns from 100cm up to130cm shooting 7.5mm shafts without sacrificing any performance.

27kg Spanish Mackerel taken on a 110cm CDR3L

To achieve this buoyancy improvement The size and weight of the bearing needed to be reduced without sacrificing performance, and durability in harsh spearfishing conditions. The solution is the new ultra light & strong hybrid ceramic bearings, with stainless steel inner and outer races. The Stainless steel inner and outer race ensure the durability against impact and deforming under high loads.

For more information and to purchase your own CDR3L muzzle kit visit Coatesmans.com

NEW 26mm ID Coatesman Single Roller for Ermes Sub & Soriatec Spearguns

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:59:00 +0200

26mm CSR for Ermessub and Soriatec carbon barrels

This new Coatesman Single Roller Speargun Muzzle - CSR🎯 is specifically designed to fit on 26mm ID Soriatec & Ermes speargun barrels. This ultra light weight single roller speargun muzzle is the lightest roller muzzle with hybrid ceramic bearings on the market. This solves the issue with short roller guns being muzzle heavy and eliminates the need for cuttlefish barrels on shorter guns.

Almost a decade of roller gun muzzle design and experimentation has gone into making the CSR the most high performance single roller muzzle available. Without compromising on the same proven construction and robust materials used in the CDR3🎯 series.

Visit Coateman's Rollergun Online Store

Spearfishing With Sharks - Adventures on the Taxman

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:18:00 +0200

There is an old spearfishing saying, “No sharks, no fish”

Spearfishing With Sharks

Spearfishing on the east coast of South Africa in summer can be a wild affair. The moment the pelagic fish arrive they seem to bring with them hoards of sharks. Or is it the other way around?

This past year the diving was short lived with two cyclones wrecking the conditions for most of the summer. Followed up by massive flooding in April which then canceled any hope of diving through winter. And it seems like we are still wallowing in the murk 8 months later.

The diving we did however get in the summer was action packed and the fish really seemed to be here enforce. And those who found the odd clean gap between the cyclone swells got real lucky.

I managed to get one good day out off our home grounds at the beginning of April, just before the floods hit. The sharks were wild, and in some places seemed to be shoaling. Ryan and I got a bunch of really good fish, and we somehow didn't lose any fish to sharks. We had a bunch of fairly close encounters that got the heart pumping, making for some entertaining videos.

The vis however was really marginal, and the weather was overcast and gloomy. So I only filmed a bunch of my dives with the a gopro 7. I never had any intention of using any of the footage. As the gloomy green water did not make for great 'eye candy'.

A few months later going through the footage and realising that the footage was really action packed I decided to put an edit together. I had not filmed any B roll footage to add to the edit. So I decided to try something a little different and do a 'blow by blow' run down of each dive filmed and try add in as much value as possible, commenting on techniques and situations as they happened.

I hope you enjoy this video and running commentary of each dive as it happened. Who knows maybe this will be the start of a series of videos diving with Ryan on the Taxman.

Cheers

Chris

Stoked The Podcast - Chris Coates

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 14:51:00 +0200

What a laugh!! Sat down with Matt & Jacques from 'Stoked The Podcast'

The conversation took on a life of its own, ending up with Matt wanting to 

get a tramp-stamp tattoo of a seal with the inscription, " Eternal Grom".

We did talk spearing and surfing too  Go check it out

CSR Single Roller Speargun Muzzle

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:36:00 +0200

Coatesmans Single Roller Muzzle

The ALL NEW Coatesman Single Roller Speargun Muzzle - CSR🎯 is specifically designed to fit on 26.5mm ID Rob Allen speargun barrels. This ultra light weight single roller speargun muzzle is the lightest roller muzzle with ceramic bearings on the market. This solves the issue with short roller guns being muzzle heavy and eliminates the need for cuttlefish barrels on shorter guns.

The CSR🎯 has been specifically designed to be as compact and low profile as possible, using 14mm bands and 7mm shaft. Careful attention has been made to where the bands lie along the barrel. Reducing the overall profile of the gun. This makes the CSR🎯 roller on a Rob Allen carbon Barrel and Vecta2 handle the ultimate (Euro style pipe) single roller on the market.

The CSR🎯 comes with the 'Easy Load Pretension Hooks' system. Eliminating any potential snags common on the old mushroom anchor points. This also makes attaching and detaching the rubbers quick and easy.

Spearfishing Giant Marlin on a Reelguns

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 10:43:00 +0200

What are your thoughts on targeting extra large fish with reelguns?

Over the past few years a number of XL Marlin have been landed on spearguns using reels. I personally was lucky enough to have shot and landed a Black Marlin of 230kg using a 130 Rob Allen reelgun. I had a perfect opportunity, and landed a kill shot stoning the large fish. But it has always intrigued me as to what would have happened if I did not stone the Marlin with a lethal shot.

230kg Black Marlin

Over the past few years a number of XL Marlin have been shot and landed with reelguns. Many of them were also killed on the first shot. The most notorious is Albert Prinsloo's 374.8 kg / 826.3 lbs IUSA World Record Black Marlin.

Albert Prinsloo's 374.8 kg / 826.3 lbs
IUSA World Record Black Marlin.

But what happens when you don't kill the giant fish on the first shot?

Guy Le Meme's 253kg beast Black Marlin shot with a std Rob Allen 120 reelgun, was one of those fish that put up a fight. Taking 2 hours and multiple shots to subdue the fish.

Guy Le Meme's 253kg Black Marlin

Shooting giant fish like these on reelguns normally means that you run out of the spearguns reel line pretty fast and you need to have a beltreel or access to a float and buoy line to land the fish.

Probably the best blow for blow example of this is the Black Marlin Cris Dillon shot in Mozambique.
The marlin quickly emptied the gun reel and Cris's belt reel. Fortunately his friend Jamie was there to clip his belt reel to the spooling line. This gave them enough time to get a large float attached to Jamies line.
From there the fish towed them 5km before they could get the fish close enough to get a second kill shot to kill the fish.

Watch the a blow by blow video here: Spearfishing Marlin on a Reel Gun

So would you take the shot if you only had a reel gun in your hands when a giant fish swims up to you? I think if you are prepared with beltreels and a float ready to clip on then, yes.
Maybe one day I will have another opportunity to shoot a giant fish like this, and have adrenaline rush of battling the fish with out killing it outright.

Coatesman

Spearfishing Mozambique - Spear Junkies Ep1

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0200

Spearfishing Mozambique Black Marlin

Spear Junkies is a spearfishing journey that follows host Cris Dillon traveling the world on a year long adventure chasing 12 dream fish. Join Cris and his guest divers as they travel to some of the world's most spectacular spearfishing destinations in search of 12 specific fish.

12 Spear Junkie fish and weights to 'Tick' off.

Some fish speared were not on the list like this very special 10.5kg Rock Salmon near Maputo.
0.5kg over the current IUSA World Record.

Cris Dillon with an excellent Black Marlin and a well deserved "Tick" on the shirt

Executive Producer Cris Dillon Camera & Edit - Barret Harvey (@African Spearfishing Diaries ) Camera & Guide Chris Coates (@Coatesman's Spearfishing ) Produced by Apnea Productions. Watch the first episode here: Spear Junkies - Spearfishing Black Marlin in Mozambique

Coatesman's Double Roller Muzzle CDR3

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:37:00 +0200

CDR3 Roller Muzzle

The NEW Coatesman CDR3 is specifically designed to fit on 26.5mm ID Rob Allen carbon speargun barrels. The double roller speargun muzzle enables the spearfisherman to easily load the twin 14mm bands, which deliver way more power than if you were loading a single 16mm or even 18mm band. The double bands produce a very smooth accurate shot with virtually no recoil.

The CDR is the original offset double roller, with the unique roller setup that enables the rubbers to align correctly. The design has evolved over the past 5 years making it the most technically advanced double roller on the market.

The CDR3 double roller speargun muzzle utilizes the proven White Lightening ceramic bearings ensuring maximum efficiency and durability, even in the toughest shore diving environments. The muzzle body is machined nylon which has a very high impact resistance, making the CDR3 muzzle extremely robust.

The CDR3 now includes the Easy Load Pretension Hooks for pretensioning rubbers, and integrated line guide.

Coatesman’s tried & tested double roller speargun muzzle is used by some of the best spearfisherman in the world. Taking down some incredible catches The CDR3 is the premium option for upgrading your Rob Allen Speargun.

Visit Coatesmans.com

Coatesman's Blackfin 7 Floating Fish Bag

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 10:02:00 +0200

Get you BLACKFIN7 Here

The Blackfin Spearfishing float version 7 is a tried & tested, effective alternative to the orthodox torpedo float commonly used by divers.

It’s primary aim is to prevent sharks, seals and dolphins from stealing fish off your stringer, something which is all too common along the coastline of South Africa.

Its secondary aim is to protect you, the diver. If sharks are prevented from eating your catch, they remain calm. Once they have eaten your fish they become frenzied and erratic, and dangerous.

A third aim is to produce a float which is more functional, lightweight, streamlined and practical than the conventional float setup.

When divers have fish on their stringers and sharks are present, they are forced to remain alert to protect their catch. There is a feeling anxiety that remains with the diver for the entire duration of their dive. When using the Blackfin Fish Float both of these feelings are eliminated. Sharks may patrol the area in that they may smell your fish, but they can no longer see them in the water, something which is crucial to the shark when hunting its prey.

Divers can remain focussed on hunting effectively when they know their catch is safe. Their concentration is solely on finding quality fish, and not divided between hunting and protecting already secured fish dangling on their stringers.

This in turn keeps the diver calm and relaxed, which are two vital ingredients in lengthy bottom times and productive Spearfishing.

Key Features

Heavy duty front strap glued and sewn with 2 x shark clips

1 x Rear shark clip

Backpack straps

3 x top lanyard straps

Strong YKK Double zipper

Heavy duty reflective mesh upper

Heavy duty PVC construction

Internal Key loop

Lightweight

High Visibility

Get you BLACKFIN7 Here

From a construction perspective, these floats are incredibly streamlined and easy to tow behind a diver. This means less exertion for the diver and less fatigue at crucial points in your dive. Gone are the days of dragging a bag of crayfish and gamefish against the rip or current and wasting precious energy. These floats have very little parasitic drag when loaded (max tested weight 70kg), allowing you to swim them from spot to spot with ease.

At the same time, second guns and flashers/torches can be stored on top of these floats while swimming out to the drop off, eliminating further drag and loss of energy. Energy drinks and sustenance can also be stored in the float bag. It is crucial for a diver to remain hydrated during a long shore dive.

The floats are very functional in that they double as a dive bag and fish float. Diving fins and extras can be stored in the bag during the long walk down the beach to the point of entry. No more lost gloves or fin guards during the long early morning walk. Canvas shoulder straps allow you to carry your gear and fish on your back to your car after your dive. With your car key safe on the internal key loop.

The floats are very robust and lightweight at 2.4kgs. They have withstood the heavy ocean conditions on the KZN dolphin coast. Produced from high quality materials by professional fitters. They are also guaranteed against manufacturers faults.

From a visual safety perspective, the float bags are bright in colour and at the request of the diver we can install a diver down/bright orange flag for further visibility.

As a parting point, everyone hates losing quality fish to sharks. We wake up super early, drive long distances to shoot quality fish for our families, only to have them stolen from us. It’s a waste of a fishes life and of time and money.

Get you BLACKFIN7 Here

How to Tie Dyneema Knot | Spearfishing

saltydiver@gmail.com (Coatesman) — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 11:21:00 +0200

How to Tie Spearfishing Dyneema Knot

How to tie the best dyneema knot for spearfishing shafts. This is the the tried and tested dyneema knot for shooting lines on spearing shafts. Plus a few great tips and tricks, including the Coatesman's 'line wetting' trick to ensure you don't burn or damage the line when tying the knot.