Watch the full interview HERE.
Spending a day with a three-time world record-holding spearfisher is a rare opportunity, but for Summer Sawaya, a Yamaha Brand Ambassador, it’s just another day in her element.
Mornings begin with her stepping onto her Yamaha FX Cruiser HO WaveRunner, heading straight for the open water. But her life isn’t just about spearfishing—she’s also a successful real estate agent managing a multi-million dollar portfolio.
From a Small Town to the Open Ocean
Spearfishing wasn’t part of Summer’s childhood. She grew up in Olean, New York, a small town south of Buffalo with no boating community and no exposure to center console boats, let alone the sport she would later master.
Her relationship with the water started later. At St. Bonaventure University, she swam Division 1, which gave her confidence in the water, but fishing and boating weren’t on her radar. That all changed when her father unexpectedly moved to Key West, Florida, after she graduated high school.
Visiting her father meant spending time near the ocean, though she initially avoided boats. She had planned to move to New York City after college, but a summer in Key West changed everything. She met a group of expert spearfishers, and within months, she was hooked. Her career path shifted, and so did her future.
Diving into the Sport
Spearfishing quickly became more than just a hobby—it consumed her. She and her friends, most of whom worked night jobs, spent their days diving and their nights working. Sleep was a rare luxury, but the ocean made up for it.
Her swimming background gave her a natural advantage. Learning to maneuver spearguns and polespears, refining her breath-hold, and mastering underwater movement accelerated her skills. Every diver has a different approach, and by training with various people, she developed her own technique.
The Right Equipment Matters
For someone who spends hours, sometimes miles offshore, reliability is everything. That’s one of the reasons Summer gravitates toward Yamaha WaveRunners.
“When you’re offshore and miles away, you need to know you can trust your equipment to get you home safely,” she says. “That’s why I choose Yamaha WaveRunners—they’re incredibly reliable, even in the most unpredictable conditions. Yamaha isn’t just about building great products; they also care about the environment, which is something I really respect. Their Rightwaters initiative is making a real impact in ocean conservation, and that means a lot to me as someone who spends so much time on and in the water.”
Breaking World Records
Without setting out to, Summer broke three world records—a blackfin tuna with a speargun, an amberjack with a pole spear, and a cub era snapper with a speargun.
She insists these records weren’t part of a plan. It came down to timing, skill, and opportunity. For her, spearfishing isn’t about competition—it’s about being in the water, reading the ocean, and feeling at peace. She never wants the pressure of chasing records to take away from what she loves.
Spearfishing & Sustainability
Beyond the thrill, spearfishing has changed her view on sustainability. Catching her own food has made her more conscious of marine ecosystems and responsible fishing. She’s gained a deeper respect for nature and a stronger awareness of humanity’s impact on the ocean.
How to Start Spearfishing
Spearfishing might seem intimidating, but it’s more accessible than it looks. The best way to start is with a knowledgeable guide, especially in Key West, where experienced spearfishers teach newcomers.
Starting in shallow water allows beginners to focus on breathing techniques and safety before moving into deeper dives. Taking a formal course ensures an understanding of both technique and ethical considerations.
The Ultimate Catch
Of all the fish she’s speared, Summer’s favorite is wahoo. Hunting them requires patience—they are fast-moving pelagic fish that often take hours of drifting before making an appearance.
When a wahoo finally comes into view, the moment is electric. Everything slows down. One shot. One opportunity. That anticipation is what makes the experience unforgettable.
Why Summer Stands Out
What makes Summer Sawaya inspiring isn’t just her records or success—it’s her authenticity and relentless passion. She believes only a small percentage of people truly get to lie their passion, and she’s grateful to be one of them.
Spearfishing has transformed her life in unexpected ways. It’s deepened her connection to the environment, pushed her limits, and introduced her to a global community of divers. More than anything, it has allowed her to build a life filled with adventure, challenge, and purpose.
Final Thoughts
Summer’s journey—from a small town in New York to breaking world records in spearfishing—proves that following your instincts and taking risks can lead to life-changing opportunities.
Want to know more about Summer’s adventures? Follow her journey and explore the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO WaveRunner she rides every day on Instagram at @summersawaya.