Using a crossbow for hunting is always fun. Fishing is also a pleasurable activity but when combined with a crossbow, fun is multiplied. You can do fishing with a crossbow that is more fun and adventure. But like for every activity, you have to learn some basics. This article aims at explaining the basics of catching a fish with a crossbow. Fishing with a crossbow is also called bow-fishing. Let us proceed further.
Table of Contents
Crossbow for fishing #
If you have the best crossbow already that is good but if you do not own a crossbow and intend to do bow-fishing then you must keep in mind some things while purchasing a crossbow.
- Choose a crossbow with draw weight in limits that you can endure. Because, during loading, cocking, and firing, you have to apply force to drawstrings.
- The energy of the bolt is also an important factor. The energy of the bolt indicates its knocking power. Higher is the kinetic energy, the higher is the knocking power to kill the target. Secondly, as bolt have to travel some yards into the water, higher energy is recommended. For bigger fish, you need a crossbow with more energy of the bolts.
- The velocity of the bolt is another important parameter. The normal velocity range for a bolt is 200-400 feet per second. Also, remember that the speed of a bolt reduces in the water.
- The prices of crossbows vary from $100 to $5000. If you are a beginner, you can buy a used or a cheaper crossbow.
- Always keep these points in mind while purchasing a new crossbow for you.
Bolts for bow-fishing #
Another interesting thing about bow-fishing I would like to mention here is that bolts for bow-fishing are not like normal bolts rather they are heavier, barbed, and can travel better under the water. Heavy bolts are good in penetrating the target when shot. Their barbed tips help them entangled into the body of the target because the body of the fish is slippery and they can easily slip out. The barbed tips just like in some marine animals are specialized to catch a fish. These bolts are easily available on online stores and local stores for fishing equipment.
The suitable water sources for bow-fishing #
You can catch fish in any water source. But experts recommend fishing first in the freshwater sources like ponds, rivers, and lakes. You can also fish in saltwater sources such as estuaries, bays, and beaches. Always do fishing in a shallow area where waters are clear and that are not deeper than 3-4 feet. Do not try to aim at fish in deeper water. Because the speed of bolts becomes slow due to the density of water and a bolt can change its trajectory in the relatively deeper layer.
Set up of crossbow for fishing #
For fishing, reels and reel mounts are used specifically to catch fish. The dacron line for most of the reels is 25 yards. Attach the reel to the crossbow correctly. Your reel must have a proper dacron line. You can place reel and rod apart if these are entangled or causing any sort of problem. You can seek the help of a companion to hold rod and reel for you when you point the crossbow.
How to catch a fish with a crossbow #
Before going fishing with a crossbow, you have to make sure that you have the necessary equipment for it. The second thing is a practice like I always say that practice makes a man perfect. To enjoy more and have more fun, you should practice first to master this skill. Now, let me tell you the tips to catch a fish after you have all the equipment and you are prepared for this amazing activity.
- When you are near the water source, try not to make any kind of noise. By doing so, fish in near water may sense your presence and swim away.
- Prepare your crossbow by attaching the reel mount and the reel for fishing. You must have a reel with the right strength for a fish that you want to catch. The spool on the reel ensures the accuracy of the aiming.
- Place the AMS line safety system on the crossbow to prevent it from snapping back. Attach barbed bolts to the line.
- If you are fishing in the lake, be careful and stay near the shore waters. Lakes can suddenly go deep.
- Try cocking of the crossbow and then insert the bolt in it. Before making a potential shot, try a shot towards a clear range. You can directly target your hunt but it is better to shot in clear range first.
- After the test shot, reload the crossbow.
- Stay focused at your target to spot a fish nearby.
- Always apply the 10-1 rule to aim at a spotted fish. The logic behind this rule is the refraction of the light in the water. During the refraction, you may misunderstand the true position of a fish and can miss your target. According to this rule, if your fish is 10 feet away and in 1 foot under the water, you would aim 4 inches lower than 1 foot. If the fish is 2 feet under the water, then you would aim 8 inches lower. The refraction of the light makes you look things closer than their true position.
- Now after aiming successfully, fire the bolt. If you are successful in your attempt, pull it and reel. Keep your net ready to capture it.
Best time for fishing with a crossbow #
You can fish anytime but the best time is during the day. Secondly, it depends on the choice of a specific fish. Sometimes, you want to catch a specific fish then you must have enough knowledge about it that when they are present in shallow waters. Most important are the laws that regulate fishing of different species. Get guide.
Conclusion #
I have tried to cover important points about fishing with a crossbow. I hope that will be helpful for you in making your activity full of fun.