Philippe Carrier is one of the finest spearfishermen on the French Riviera, known not only for his impressive catches but also for producing outstanding videos. After representing France on the national team, he chose to turn his passion into a profession and build his life around the sea. We met him to learn more about his journey and his future plans.

Philippe, where were you born, and when did you start spearfishing?

"I was born in Cannes, on the French Riviera, in 1977. Between the ages of 12 and 16, I competed in rowing and achieved some good results. Unfortunately for my coach, one day I came across an issue of Apnea Magazine, which featured articles about spearfishing—and, above all, competitions.

Like many kids, I had already spent my childhood looking for octopus and small fish. But when I realized that spearfishing could be practiced as a competitive sport, I immediately knew that it was what I wanted to do with my life. I quit rowing at 16, joined A.P.P.A.—where I am still a member today—and immediately began competing in two-man events.

I often say that I was born a second time, because I discovered an incredible passion for the sea, fish, freediving, and competition. Four years later I was selected for the French National Team, becoming the youngest athlete ever to do so, and I remained on the team for six years. During that time I competed in the European Championships in Menorca and Arbatax, the World Championship in Tahiti, and many other international events.

It was the greatest period of my life. I was also fortunate and honored to join the Cressi Team in 2000, and 26 years later I am still proudly part of it. I would like to thank Team Manager Nino Piras for the trust he has always placed in me."

You later became a professional fisherman. How did you make that decision?

"I made that choice in 2003 because it seemed like the natural next step. I worked with fishing nets, practiced commercial underwater harvesting when it was still legal—sadly, it is no longer permitted—and above all I specialized in sea urchins, which I still harvest during the winter.

Nowadays, however, both fish and sea urchins have become increasingly scarce. Because of this, I have had to take on a second job: I work as a taxi driver so I don't have to rely entirely on the sea for my income. It takes some of the pressure off, and if the sea conditions are too rough, I can simply rest in my car instead."

What is your favorite place to dive?

"Without any doubt, the Mediterranean. I've traveled all over the world, both for competitions and for pleasure, but nothing makes me happier than diving in our own waters—especially in Sardinia and Greece.

I live on the French Riviera and most of my spearfishing takes place offshore from Saint-Tropez, where the seabed resembles that of Corsica and Sardinia, with isolated granite boulders scattered across sand and algae-covered bottoms."

What is your favorite fish to hunt?

"In France, dentex and amberjack using the ambush technique, and large scorpionfish when hunting in holes. Abroad, without question, groupers—especially when I'm lucky enough to go diving with my Italian friends.

I had the pleasure of diving in Sardinia with my dear late friend Bruno De Silvestri, who later came to visit me at home. He was an extraordinary champion. We first met during the 1999 European Championship in Menorca.

I also had the privilege of meeting Dario Maccioni and Stefano Claut in Syros in 2016, and later I went diving with them in their home waters. Stefano also visited me once on the French Riviera.

Then there is the great champion Daniel Gospic, who invited me to Croatia for an unforgettable week.

Today, after 32 years of intensive spearfishing, the thing that still excites me and keeps me dreaming is making deep dives on new spots that I locate and explore with the help of modern electronics."

When you're not at sea, what are your hobbies?

"I enjoy training at the gym, swimming, and cycling. I also love reading and constantly learning new things, particularly about international geopolitics.

Finally, I spend a great deal of time working on my YouTube channel, producing videos so I can share my passion with as many people as possible."