Large-scale surveys have been used to estimate the value of recreational fishing over large areas and time periods in the past, but there is a lack of information regarding the value of smaller event based recreational fishing activities. Using the travel-cost method, we estimate the overall value generated by two regional spearfishing competitions in eastern Australia and the adjusted value per competitor. The 2021 Bluewater Classic was valued between $32,874 and $39,492 AUD, with past values up to $100,364. The 2021 Eden 3-way Championships was valued between $102,461 and $118,747. On a per-competitor basis, the adjusted mean expenditure was between $1,090 and $1,649. Both competitions generated substantial economic activity within the towns that hosted them, as we estimated that localised expenditure constituted 60 – 71% of a competition’s overall value. These estimates demonstrate the value of recreational competitions for regional areas and the importance for economic surveys to consider smaller events.