Page 2 of 2 - Bowfishing

What is Bowfishing?

Bowfishing is the ultimate mash-up of archery and angling. Instead of using bait and hooks, you use a bowfishing bow equipped with a reel and specially designed arrows to shoot and retrieve fish in shallow water. It's fast, fun, and an exciting way to target invasive or rough fish species like carp, gar, or bowfin.

Think of it as using a bow and arrow fishing rod---a unique system that lets you stalk and shoot fish with precision, whether you're on a boat, standing on a dock, or wading along the shoreline.

Bowfishing is growing in popularity across the country, especially in warmer months and floodplain areas. With the right bowfishing gear, it's a great way to get outside, sharpen your shooting skills, and enjoy a completely different kind of challenge.

How Bowfishing Gear Works

A bowfishing setup looks similar to standard archery gear, but it's built for power, speed, and water. Most bowfishing bows are either recurve or compound models customized for quick shots and durability in wet conditions.

Here's what a full bowfishing gear setup includes:

• Bowfishing Bows -- Durable and simple, these are often lower-poundage bows for fishing, typically set between 30--50 lbs for quick draw and release.
• Bowfishing Arrows -- Made from solid fiberglass or carbon, with heavy, barbed tips designed to penetrate and hold fish.
• Reels -- A mounted bowfishing reel for recurve or compound bows lets you retrieve your arrow and the fish. Options include spincast, bottle, or hand-wrap reels.
• Safety Slides -- Keep your line out in front of the bow to prevent dangerous snapbacks.
• Rest and Line Guides -- Help align the arrow and control the line during your shot and retrieval.

Unlike target archery, bowfishing relies on instinctive shooting and quick reaction times. You'll often shoot from a boat or bank, aiming at fish in shallow, moving water.

Choosing the Right Bowfishing Gear

Getting started with bowfishing is easier than you might think. Here's what to consider when picking your bow and arrow fishing rod or full bowfishing setup:

No matter your experience level, the right bowfishing bows and accessories will help you land more fish and enjoy every shot.