How to Make Bow Fishing Equipment

The basics of bowfishing equipment

Bowfishing or shooting game fish with your bow is a technique carried down from Native American cultures.Today bow hunters can pursue the same pastime and can even make the equipment themselves. The bowfishing equipment that this article will outline is known as a "shoot through" design, in which the arrow passes through the "reel" allowing a clean release and follow through. Follow the steps below to get started on your own bowfishing adventure today!

Things You'll Need

• 5 gallon bucket
• 2 metal 'L' brackets
• Electrical tape
• Fishing line
• Heavy hardwood arrow shafts
• 6D nails

Instructions

1. Cut a two to three inch section off the top of the 5 gallon bucket (preferably with a lip on the backside so string doesn't come off the wrong side). This will be your reel.

2. Attach the two L-straps opposite each other on the reel section and cover them with electrical tape. Use these to mount the reel to your bow (tape them to the bow limbs).

3. Wrap the fishing string in large loops around the reel and leave a 2 to 3 foot length free to attach the arrow to.

4. Drill two holes in the field point. Attach the string to one and put the nail through the other. Bend the ends of the nail down at a 30-degree angle to create a "barbed" head.

5. Install the head on the hickory arrow shaft and you are ready to start fishing!

Tips & Warnings

• Carry pliers to straighten out your barbs after catching a fish or hitting a rock. Have a fillet knife on hand to clean your fish once you reel them in.

• Always be sure of your target and only shoot at non-protected fish species.

Resources

• Detailed instructions on building your own bowhunting/fishing equipment