Whether you already love fishing and want more excitement, you're a dedicated hunter looking to add something new to your hobby, or you're a new hunter looking for an exciting past time you can really get your teeth into, bowfishing is an excellent choice. Bowfishing is an exciting sport that takes skill, patience, and a sense of adventure. Sound like you? Then let's get started with some bowfishing basics.
Start With the Basics – Your Bow
Your most basic piece of equipment for bowfishing is of course your bow. When it comes to bowfishing, many hunters find that a simple but good quality set up works best. Recurve bows are popular with bowfishing enthusiasts, although some do swear by a compound bow too. Whichever your preference, the trick is to find a bow with a low enough draw weight to allow you to shoot repeatedly and quickly – most of the time you'll be aiming at a moving target at close range, so a quick response is a must. We're proud to carry a range of recurve and compound bows to match your individual needs.
Reel Them In With The Right Reel Choice
You'll need a reel designed specifically with bow fishing in mind. When you're bow fishing it's important that your reel releases easily and gives you a tangle-free shot. From simple screw-on or tape-on reels to the retriever reel with its automatic reel release for the serious bowhunter, we would be pleased to advise you on the best bowfishing reel for your needs.
Hit Your Target With The Best Arrow
Bowfishing uses different arrows from other types of hunting. Bowfishing arrows are smooth and straight flying, but a bit heavier than standard arrows. It's important that you choose bowfishing arrows – standard arrows are too light to pass easily through water and have fletching, which will divert them once in the water. Bowfishing arrows also feature a barbed arrowhead to grip the target, and are attached directly to the line reel.
Don't Forget Your License And Accessories
When you're ready to go bowfishing, you'll need to make sure you get a license before you start. In most areas a straightforward fishing license is all that's needed, but do be sure to check with your local area first.
If you're bowfishing during the day, a hat and polarized sunglasses are a must to keep you protected from the sun, and don't forget the sunscreen. At night you'll need to keep warm, building up the layers depending on where and when you're planning to fish – and don't forget your flashlight to see your target.
You might be surprised to learn that a boat is optional for bowfishing! If you're eager to try the sport but don't have access to a boat, you can get started by shooting from the bank or from the shallows.
Bowfishing is a versatile sport suitable for absolute beginners or seasoned pros, offering fun, adventure and achievement on the water.
