Bowfishing Tips for 3 Different Types of Fish with Your Parker StingRay Bow
Bowfishing can be compared to bowhunting, except that you are hunting in the water, you're shooting a lot more, it's warmer and you can talk to your friends. You'll need the right gear (including the right bowfishing bow - like the Parker StingRay, but more on that later) and you need to be equipped with the right tips geared at the fish that you are seeking out. So, here are a few tips for three particular freshwater targets:
- Carp
Common carp is a very popular fish and is a popular target for bowfishers. Whether you opt to fish in the river or a drainage ditch, there is a good chance you will find some carp. The best time to go bowfishing for carp is during the early spring spawn, which is typically during April and May when the water temperatures are in the low 60s. The carp tend to remain in shallow water, which means that they're the perfect targets. Make sure that you wade in the waters rather than trying to go out in the boat, as you will have more luck this way.
- Gar
Gar - whether spotter, shortnose, or a completely different species - are widely popular in Alabama and other southern areas of the United States. Depending on the species, you will find them in cool, open waters or possibly warmer waters in weeds. When bowfishing gar, it is important to remember that most gar have a protective, yet flexible armor. When combined with their slender body, it can result in common glance-offs. So, you need to make sure that you're using extra-sharp tips. Also, since gar tend to come to the surface to "gulp" air, you need to be ready for those quick shot opportunities.
- Catfish
Catfish is a common and popular type of fish for bowfishers to target. Why? Because they're tasty! They are often too deep in the water to actually see, though they can come closer to the surface in the right feeding conditions. To have success with catfish while bowfishing, you need to be ready to take some deep shots quickly, which means your setup need to be powerful. You also want to ensure you're seeking the catfish out in still, clear waters.
Check Out Our Parker StingRay for Your Next Bowfishing Adventure
When bowfishing, you need to make sure that you have a bow that you can rely on and that you know will get the job done. Parker's StingRay is one of those lightweight bows with an adjustable draw weight that can be made without the need for additional tools. It delivers consistent accuracy for bowfishing in fresh or salt water and has superb line control. It's perfect to take with you on your next bowfishing adventure.