Must-Have Bowfishing Tackle

by
posted on May 24, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
bow_fishing_gear_f.jpg

Editor's note: Field Editor Jeff Johnston and Executive Editor Adam Heggenstaller recently had the chance to put some of the following gear to test during their own bowfishing adventure. You can catch up on that story here.

“I recommend compact, no-letoff compound bows designed for bowfishing, such as PSE’s Mudd Dog or Discovery,” advises Capt. Bob Wetherald. “Their smooth draw cycles promote fast and intuitive shooting. We prefer AMS Retriever Pro reels over closed-faced [spin-cast] reels due to the safety aspects of not having to push the line release button prior to each shot.”

PSE offers these bows in kits that provide everything you need to get started. The Discovery kit costs around $300. Along with reels, AMS also supplies fish hunters with arrows and barbed points; it never hurts to have a spare or two. 

Fish hunting is at minimum a two-person sport, while three is ideal. One person should steer the boat and/or work the spotlight while another person shoots. For night hunts, a spotlight and a headlamp for each person are a must. A Thermacell unit, such as the rubber-armored MR450, to ward off flying insects is also recommended.

Latest

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.