Help sustain the reef by becoming a Lion Fish Invasive Species Removal Diver

Ron Willis   Oct 19, 2026

 

The First Step is to become trained on how to properly remove these fish from the areas where they do not belong.

Many countries have their own certification process but overall the PADI Lion Fish Control Specialist covers most areas.

The course content is usually via a PDF document followed by 2 acutual underwater hunts for Lion Fish.

Tools for hunting may include a sling spear or Hawiian Sling, or in some cases like Bonaire you may be required to use the Lion Fish Elimination Tool.

A proper container and the brand most commonly used is the Zookeeper.  This is a PVC tube with a one way valve.

Hunting with a trained leader is the best way to stay safe as many of the spines are venemous and can really inflict a lot of pain if not handled properly.

Here is a link to a great resource to learn about the process for all locations especially if you plan on hunting in Honduras:

https://www.roatanmarinepark.org/lionfish-calendar

For more information we have our own resident PADI Course Director that conducts training and hunts on many of our trips and locations around the world.  For more info reach out to Ron Willis via email at ron.willis@westshorescuba.com