Raúl Astorga Perdigones is one of the most complete spearfishermen on the Spanish scene. Experienced competitor, athlete of the Mares brand athlete and firefighter by profession, he combines physical, technical and mental demands with a deep passion for the sea.
In this interview with Apnea Passion Magazine, we discover his career, his favorite spearfishing techniques, his vision of the competition and the details that make the difference between getting on the podium or staying one step away from victory.
Valentina Prokic: When and how did your passion for spearfishing begin?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones:From the day I was born, my parents, uncles, aunts, uncles and cousins summered at Caños de Meca beach, in Trafalgar, the cradle of spearfishing in Cadiz. My cousins practiced spearfishing every day, as they were a few years older than me, so I grew up in that environment. Sometimes they would take me in the zodiac and I would watch them fishing. When I was 9 years old , I started to get into the water with my cousin, and that’s how my interest and passion for this discipline grew.
Favorite techniques and species you are passionate about
VP: What are your favorite spearfishing techniques and what fish do you like to catch?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: I generally like fishing in the dens the best. I think you have to have a certain instinct to recognize the seabed and sense which rock might have a big fish. Although I also like to fish in aspetto and ambush. I usually alternate all the techniques and I don’t focus on just one. I recognize that I am passionate about grouper fishing, and now especially white grouper when I have the opportunity to fish in the Balearic Islands, since there is no white grouper in my waters. I am also enthusiastic about sea bass fishing; I think I have learned a lot from this modality and, without a doubt, it is one of my favorites.
The leap to competition
VP: When did you start competing and why do you like to compete?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones:I started quite late, at the age of 29. Before that I had gone to several provincial boatman championships, and I think that’s where I learned a lot. I think I should have started much earlier, since I would have acquired a faster preparation in competition. At that time I was studying Marine Sciences at the university and then I started to take the exams for the environment and then for the Fire Department, so I did not have time to prepare for a competition.
When I became a firefighter I decided to start competing, back in 2009. Competition has helped me a lot to improve in all aspects. I think the best thing is to meet all kinds of fishermen and learn from them: their techniques and their experience in seas different from yours. And, of course, the great friendship that is created; I have made great friends thanks to the competition. I have always been very competitive in my life and in all the sports I have practiced. I have always had a great desire to constantly improve myself, and competition is a way to surpass yourself.
The Palma Master
VP: This year you came third in the Palma de Mallorca Master… what are you missing to reach the first place?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: Although I firmly believe in the preparation of such a test, I think I have lacked that stroke of luck, at least on a couple of occasions. On two occasions I was just one fish away from winning and, although I am aware that all of us competitors miss something, I think that bit of luck is fundamental.
For example, this year I didn’t know the area and it was clear to me that the local anglers were the favorites. When I saw the results I thought the point spread would be wider. I was unlucky enough to have a grouper of about 3.5 kg and two croakers released.
I also think I could have used a five-hour test, because I had a very fishy rock where I would have gotten a lot out of it in an extra hour. Seeing the small points difference with the first two, I think maybe that would have made the difference. Even so, I think I need to prepare for this race with more time and look for more scorpionfish areas, as this is a key species to win this championship.
Future plans and sports mentality
VP: What are your next plans for the competition?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: I don’t usually set big goals. I always say that the main thing is to stay in the best physical shape throughout the year, either fishing or practicing other sports that help me maintain a great physical condition. Also having a good diet is essential. When the competition dates come closer I will evaluate. Although I can’t deny that the upcoming important championshipsattract me a lot, so I try to enjoy those moments to the fullest. On the other hand, I will continue trying to win the Master of Palma; I have that thorn in my side, although I know it is very difficult because of the high level of competitors.
Equipment and experience with Mares
VP: You are a Mares athlete, what products do you particularly like?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: I quite like your spearguns in general; I have had a very easy adaptation to them and I think your reels are fantastic. I think the X-Wing C-Evo fins are key for the demanding fishing I do in the Strait, with so many strong currents .
VP: What do you think of the Mares Sirius Hunter watch and the Mares Force airgun, both Best Choice 2025?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones:The watch Siriushas pleasantly surprised me. Although it seems that all clocks are more or less the same, at least I had not had one before that showed me the time of descent and ascent. I think this is a very important data to take into account and with which we can draw great conclusions to improve our day-to-day fishing. I can’t give my opinion about the Force speargun because I haven’t tried it. I don’t fish with pneumatic spearguns. Maybe someday.
Unforgettable captures
VP: What is your best and most emotional capture?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: The truth is that I wouldn’t know which one. I have caught big fish all my life and each cast is special. Perhaps I would highlight a croaker of 51 kg. I went down with a 100 speargun with a rubber band and, as I was descending, I saw this big sea bass a little further ahead and, next to it, another one of about 40 kg. I knew that with that gun I had to make a close and accurate shot. Luckily, I stalked it well and gave it a big frontal shot in the head, and was able to kill it instantly. I also really enjoyed the white groupers I was able to catch, especially the ones I got in competition at the Palma Masters, since I don’t have this species at my “home”.
The profession as a fundamental pillar
VP: A few words about your work?
Raúl Astorga Perdigones: My work is a great pillar for spearfishing. I take it very seriously and I am aware that I must always maintain the best physical shape possible. I enjoy every day of my work; being able to help people without asking for anything in return is incredibly rewarding, being aware that you have been able to save someone’s life. But it’s also very hard when you don’t get it. We firefighters work as a team and we train not to make mistakes; we all work as one. That teamwork is also reflected when preparing for a team fishing competition.