PADI Lionfish Hunter

Help save Caribbean reefs from invasive Lionfish! In 1992, when Hurricane Andrew struck Florida, numerous aquariums containing Lionfish were breached, introducing them into the Atlantic Ocean. Since then, Lionfish have made the east coast of North America and the Caribbean their new home. Unfortunately, these regions of the world lack natural predators of Lionfish and are filled with ignorant prey. Because of this, the Lionfish population has exploded in recent years, with devastating effects on local marine life and reef ecosystems. Learn about invasive Lionfish and how to use Lionfish removal systems safely to help remove them from aquatic environments without harming the reef or indigenous wildlife.

Course Prerequisites

• PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent

• Minimum age 15

What You Will Learn

You will learn the techniques involved in the usage of Lionfish removal systems, primarily the ELF Lionfish removal tool, and Lionfish containment devices, such as the Zookeeper™, within recreational limits, the use of the “Spotter” and “Hunter” method of Lionfish removal, how to avoid disturbing delicate marine life while hunting Lionfish, how to safely hunt & handle Lionfish and how to avoid being stung by a Lionfish.

Performance Requirements

PADI Lionfish Hunter specialty course certification training is typically conducted conducted with a brief classroom session and Lionfish removal tool workshop, followed by open water training dives. To achieve certification, you will need to:

• Participate in the classroom training session and complete the Lionfish Hunter Knowledge Review provided by your instructor.

• Participate in the Lionfish Removal Tool Workshop.

• Complete (2) Lionfish Hunter training dives with a PADI Lionfish Hunter Instructor.

Course Format

PADI Lionfish Hunter specialty courses are typically conducted from a dive boat or shore at local dive sites. Your classroom session, Lionfish removal tool workshop & two PADI Lionfish Hunter specialty training dives can be completed in one day.

Course Schedule & Cost

PADI Lionfish Hunter specialty courses are conducted through the dive stores that I work with, including VIP Diving. Please check their websites for the most current PADI Lionfish Hunter training schedule and course costs.