Ever watched the sun set over a calm lake, feeling the quiet anticipation of a unique hunt? Bowfishing offers that thrill, but it comes with a special challenge: choosing the right gear. Many anglers feel lost when facing rows of specialized bows. Which one handles the water best? Which one has the power you need?
Picking the wrong bow can lead to frustrating misses and wasted time on the water. You need equipment built tough enough for wet conditions and powerful enough to stop a fast-moving fish. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what makes a great bowfishing bow and explain the features that matter most.
Keep reading to learn exactly how to select a reliable bow that fits your style and budget. By the end, you will feel confident stepping onto your boat, ready to reel in your next big catch with the perfect tool in hand.
Top Bowfishing Bow Recommendations
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighs only 3.2 pounds for effortless maneuvering
- ACCURATE: 7" brace height ensures precise shooting
- ENHANCED ACCESSORIES: Equipped with the Arrow with Piranha point, Arrow Rest, and Winch Pro reel, the Shore Runner EVW is ready for action
- CONSTANT DRAW: Offers constant draw up to 30" for versatile performance
- The next generation of powerful and productive bowfishing bows from Muzzy Bowfishing
- Powered by Oneida’s proven lever action technology the Muzzy VXM brings to the market a smooth drawing, deep penetrating bowfishing bow in a highly adjustable format custom crafted to withstand the rigors of fresh and salt water bowfishing
- Founded on the backbone of a reduced-weight magnesium cast then machined riser, the VXM trims the weight from the previous models without the sacrifice to performance
- Adjustable draw length and weight provide a wide range of flexibility for users of all sizes and experience levels
- ICONIC DESIGN: Take-Down design measures 56 inches long with a 45-lb. peak draw weight
- EXTREME DURABILITY: High-grade aluminum riser and composite limbs that handles abuse of bowfishing
- COMPLETE BUNDLE: Package includes drum reel with line, roller rest, and arrow with Piranha point
- MAXMIUM PERFORMANCE: No-slip rubber grip and Blister Buster finger pads for a consistent shot every time
- PLENTY OF OPTIONS: Threaded holes for mounting sights or reels that accept Cajun Winch and Winch Pro
- 【Bow Parameter】IBO 320 fps ; Axle to Axle: 34"; Draw Weight: 20-70lbs Adjustable, Draw Length: 24" -30" Adjustable, Brace Height: 7.3", Upgrade Bow Cams, the Let-off could be reached 80%! Please read the guide manual carefully before adjusting the DRAW LENGTH & DRAW WEIGHT.
- 【Limbs & Cams & Modules】Adopt Gordon limbs, which are made in USA, the bow limbs are well made with lightweight high strength fiberglass board, which is even and smooth, making the bow more powerful.The compound bow riser is made of aluminum alloy, which is strong and durable.The rubber handle is on the outside for improved comfort.
- 【Bow Accessories】Ready to Shoot/Hunt Compound Bow Set; Package includes: 1xCompound Bow, 1xFive Pin Optical Bow Sight, 1xArrow Rest, 1xBowfishing Arrow Rest,1x Stabilizer, 1x Arrow Puller, 1xBow Release Aid,1xPeep Sight, 1xArm Guard, 8xCarbon Arrows, 4xBowfishing Arrows, 1xBow Wrist Sling, 1xBow Stand, 1xFishing Reel Seat, 1xBowfishing Reel (Right/Left Handed),1xStorage Box,6x Hunting Broadheads,1xCompound Bow Carry Sling.
- 【Right/Left Handed Archer】Have RIGHT & LEFT Handed two types for option; The RIGHT HANDED hunting compound bow will be held in your left hand, pull the string with your right hand, and determine the arrow with your right eye to achieve perfect aim. The LEFT HANDED compound bow will be held in your right hand, pull the bow string with your left hand. Perfect for outdoor hunting/target shooting training practice/competition sport games, bow fishing hunting.
- 【WARM NOTICE】: Please read the manual carefully before shooting. DO NOT DRY FIRE (shoot without an arrow)! This will damage the bow and hurt yourself and the people around you. Limited Life-time Warranty on main parts after your registration within 30 days of purchase.
- RTF Kit includes Cajun Winch Pro Reel, Brush Fire Arrow Rest, (1) Red Fiberglass Piranha Arrow, along with Sight and Riser Mounted Picatinny Rail/Line Puller
- Compact 31” axle-to-axle and lightweight
- Includes constant draw and draw length specific modules, along with Cajun Blister Buster finger pads
- New Glow in The Dark Cajun Camo, Cajun Red Camo, or Patriot Series Camo
- Features 65% let off with the draw length specific module and a 6-3/8” brace height, offering a smooth and easy shooting bow
- 【Suitable for Beginners] : Lanneret bowfishing bow:Axle-to.Axle: 34.2"，Draw weight: 15-45lbs, Draw length: 18"-29.5"adiustable, Let off:70%, Hand Orientation Right/Left. Perfect for adults and beginners.
- 【High Quality Materials]： Lanneret bowfishing bow riser is made of aluminum alloy, which is strong and durable.The Fishing reel for bowfishing allows for one-handed Operation,no need to press any buttons before searching for the target,suitable for both beginners and experienced archer & fisher.
- 【Get Ready to Fishing】 The bowfishing bow for everyone is finally here at an unbelievable price; For every bowfishing shooter; Getting started, or shooting for advancement we've got you covered with it
- 【Avaliable for Right Hand】：This right-handed bowfishing bow will be held in your left hand, pull the strings with your right hand and determine the arrow with your right eye to achieve perfect aim. Lanneret bowfishing bow is perfect for fishing and hunting.
- 【Soft Remind】Please read the manual carefully before you use compound bow,it will hurt you if you use bowfishing bow in a wrong way.The most important point is "DO NOT DRY FIRE (shoot the bow without arrow)" This will hurt you and compound Bow Will Break Up.Meanwhile, the Lanneret compound bow is a great gift for your family and friends.If there is any problem with the product please contact us promptly.
- BOWFISHING BOW SPECIFICATIONS: Axle-to-Axle: 28" ; Draw weight:19-70 LBS, Draw length: 19"-30" adjustable，Brace Height：7"，Let off:75% ，IBO rate: up to 320 fps, String length:55.31", Cable length:30.7"*2, Hand Orientation: Right handed
- BOW FISHING COMBO KIT INCLUDE: Type1: 1* Bowfishing bow，1* Bowfishing Arrow Rest ，1*Bowfishing Reel，1*Compound Bow Case，3* Fiberglass Arrow,1 * Bow Sight; Type2: 1* Bowfishing bow，1* Bowfishing Arrow Rest ，1*Bowfishing Reel，1*Bowfishing Reel Seat, 1*Compound Bow Case，3* Fiberglass Arrow,1 * Bow Sight
- HIGH QUALITY BOWFISHING COMPOUND BOW: Bow Handle: CNC machining aluminum alloy, anodized surface. Bow Limbs: American Gordon competition limbs. Cam: CNC machining 7075 aluminum alloy, which is light and strong. High performance dual cam system. Imported BCY bowstring. Shooting more stable and less loud.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE BOWFISHING COMPOUND BOW: For target shooting hunting and bowfishing, 19-70Lbs draw weight adjustable, which is suitable for teens and adults. No bow press is required.
- WARM NOTICE: Please read the manual carefully before you operate the bow. DO NOT DRY FIRE (shoot the bow without arrow)! This will damage the bow and hurt yourself and the people around you.
- READY TO FISH: Get ready for the ultimate fishing experience with our all-in-one compound bow fishing kit! Bow fishing that is is easily accessible even if you have no fishing experience, just simply grab your kit and head out on the water for an exciting bow fishing experience.
- THINK WHAT YOU WANT: Designed specifically for fishing. Quality compound bow with pre-installed finger saver on the string for added comfort and protection; durable wrist strap is used to prevent the bow from falling into the water due to fatigue or slippage; 3 solid fishing arrows designed to pierce through water and catch even the toughest of prey.
- PRECISION AND POWER: With draw weights adjustable from 30 - 60 lbs and arrow speeds up to 320 fps, SPG bowfishing bow gives you the power for long-range shots on big fish; and draw lengths adjustable from 19"-31" allow you to find the perfect setting for accurate and powerful shots.
- SMOOTH REELING: The included bottle fishing reel makes it easy to reel in your catch without any hassle, virtually zero drag construction helps you shoot further (please read the instructions carefully before you use).
- PACKAGE INCLUDES: 1 Bowfishing Compound Bow (with Finger Saver) + 1 Bottle Fishing Reel + 3 Fishing Arrows + 3 Fishing Arrows Safety Slide Kits+ 1 Stabilizer + 1 Wrist Sling +User's Manual. Get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure and take your bow fishing game to the next level with our premium Compound Bow Fishing Kit!
The Ultimate Bowfishing Bow Buying Guide
Bowfishing is an exciting way to hunt fish. You use a special bow to shoot arrows tipped with lines. Choosing the right bowfishing bow makes a big difference. This guide helps you pick the best one for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a bowfishing bow, certain parts matter most. These features help you shoot accurately and retrieve your catch easily.
Draw Weight and Length
- Draw Weight: This is how hard you pull the string back. Beginners should look for lower draw weights, maybe 30 to 45 pounds. Stronger hunters can use higher weights for more power.
- Draw Length: This needs to match your arm span. A proper draw length helps you shoot straight every time.
Bow Type
- Recurve Bows: These are often simpler and lighter. They are great for new bowfishers.
- Compound Bows: These bows use cams (wheels) for easier holding at full draw. They offer more speed and power, which is good for long shots.
Reel System Compatibility
Your bow needs a good place to mount your fishing reel. Make sure the bow has a standard mounting bracket. Some bows come with a pre-installed reel seat.
Important Materials
The materials used affect how long your bow lasts and how well it handles water.
Riser and Limbs
- Aluminum Risers: Most quality bows use aluminum for the main body (riser). Aluminum is strong and resists rust well, which is vital near water.
- Durable Limbs: The limbs (the flexible arms) should be made of strong fiberglass or composite materials. These materials handle repeated flexing and wet conditions without breaking.
Waterproofing
Since you will be near or in the water, look for bows treated for moisture resistance. Sealed bearings and rust-proof hardware are big pluses.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all bows perform the same. Pay attention to these quality indicators.
Quality Boosters
- Adjustability: High-quality bows let you easily change the draw weight and length without special tools. This lets the bow grow with you.
- Smooth Draw Cycle: Compound bows with smooth cams feel better to shoot. You avoid sudden jerks when releasing the arrow.
Quality Reducers
- Plastic Components: Avoid bows that use too much cheap plastic for structural parts. Plastic breaks down faster when exposed to sun and water.
- Heavy Vibration: A quality bow should not shake much after you shoot. Excessive vibration means wasted energy and makes aiming harder.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use your bowfishing setup.
Ease of Use on a Boat
If you fish from a small boat, you need a compact bow. A shorter bow is easier to handle when the fish runs close to the boat. Quick aiming is key in fast-paced situations.
Shore vs. Deep Water
- Shoreline Fishing: When shooting from the bank, you might need a longer bow for better range. You often shoot into shallower water, so a bow with a lower kinetic energy might be safer.
- Recreational vs. Tournament Use: Casual fishers can choose simpler, affordable models. Serious tournament shooters should invest in bows known for speed and pinpoint accuracy.
Bowfishing Bow FAQs
Q: What is the main difference between a regular bow and a bowfishing bow?
A: A bowfishing bow is built tougher for water use. It also has special mounts for reels and line attachment points. Regular bows are not usually designed to get soaked.
Q: Do I need a license to use a bowfishing bow?
A: Yes, most places require a fishing license, and often a special endorsement or permit for bowfishing. Always check your local state or provincial hunting and fishing regulations first.
Q: How fast should my bow be for bowfishing?
A: Speed is helpful because fish move fast. Compound bows generally offer the best speed, usually shooting arrows faster than recurves. Look for bows rated at least 280 feet per second (FPS) or higher for good performance.
Q: Can I use my regular target arrows for bowfishing?
A: No, you must use specialized bowfishing arrows. These arrows have heavy shafts and strong fiberglass points attached to a durable line. Regular arrows will break or sink too fast.
Q: Should I buy a ready-to-fish package?
A: Ready-to-fish packages are great for beginners. They usually come with the bow, reel, line, and a few arrows bundled together. This saves time setting up your first rig.
Q: How do I maintain my bow after a day of bowfishing?
A: Always rinse your bow thoroughly with fresh, clean water after use. Dry it completely before storing it. Check the bowstring for any signs of fraying, especially near the water lines.
Q: What draw weight is best for carp?
A: Carp are tough fish. Most bowfishers use a draw weight between 40 and 60 pounds when targeting large carp. This gives you enough force to drive the arrow through the scales and water resistance.
Q: Are compound bows harder to shoot accurately in the water?
A: Compound bows are powerful, but they can sometimes be bulkier. Practice is key. Their speed helps counteract the drag caused by water if you are shooting from a distance.
Q: What kind of reel should I choose?
A: A spinning reel is the most common choice for bowfishing. It holds a lot of heavy line and handles the shock of retrieving a fighting fish well. Make sure it has a good drag system.
Q: How deep can I expect my arrow to penetrate?
A: Penetration depends on your bow’s power and the water clarity. In clear, shallow water, a powerful bow can easily penetrate 8 to 12 inches of fish flesh. Murky water or shooting through surface glare reduces this depth.