Bowfishing combines both archery and fishing techniques. In the sport, the bowfisher actually hunts for fish with the bow, barbed arrow and line. When the bowfisher shoots fish with the arrow, it lodges in the fish. The bowfisher then winds the line in to retrieve the fish. Bowfishing is a popular pastime throughout the United States and targets large nongame fish species.
Equipment
A typical bowfishing setup begins with the bow. While bowfishers still regularly use traditional recurve bows, many now use compound bows, which are more compact and easier to draw. Most bowfishers do not use sites on their bows. Instead, they prefer to aim along the length of the arrow. The bowfishing arrow is more substantial than arrows typically used for hunting or target shooting. Bowfishing arrows have no feathers and possess a special barbed tip, which prevents the arrow from coming loose when retrieving the fish. A length of special line connects the arrow to a retriever reel that attaches to the bow. The reel can be a simple hand-wrapped spool or a device similar to a fishing reel .
Technique
Because a bowfisher actually hunts for the fish, stealth is very important, and proper aim is critical. Because of the refraction of light through water, the position of the fish does not always appear to be where the fish really is. The bowfisher must understand this and adjust accordingly. When the bowfisher shoots and the arrow strikes its target, the barbed tip of the arrow lodges in the fish. The line unwinds from the retriever reel as the fish tries to escape. The bowfisher then winds the line back onto the reel to bring the fish in.
Species
Bowfishing enthusiasts target several different species large enough to hunt with bow and arrow. In freshwater, these include various types of carp, including European, grass and silver carp, as well as buffalo, catfish and alligator gar. Bowfishers also hunt for saltwater fish, such as sharks or stingrays. However, in many areas, it is illegal to take bass, walleye, salmon or other game fish by bow and arrow. Before bowfishing, check with your local fish and game authority concerning rules and regulations that govern licenses, seasons and species restrictions.
Types
Onshore bowfishing takes place from the banks of a body of water. The bowfisher stalks the edges, looking for fish close enough to shoot. Chum is sometimes used to draw fish close to the shore.
Wading bowfishing requires a pair of hip waders. The bowfisher moves slowly and stealthily through shallow water and marshy areas, stalking fish.
Boat bowfishing allows the bowfisher to hunt deeper waters. Many boats have a platform mounted on the bow to provide a better vantage point.
Location
Lakes, rivers and ponds are typical bowfishing locations for carp, gar and other freshwater species. Onshore, wading and boat bowfishing are effective in these areas. In saltwater, look for rays and sharks in brackish marshes and inshore estuaries, as well as in shallow open water. Access to these saltwater areas usually requires a boat.
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