3 Best Bowfishing Bows

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.

Hey there fellow fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best bowfishing bows to hunt the big ones with this year. Bowfishing offers a unique kind of experience to anglers when compared to traditional rods and reel fishing . And just like the principles we apply in established fishing, success in bowfishing is significantly affected by the bow we bring with us. Therefore, it is imperative for us to invest in a good bow to give ourselves the best chance of success.

But how do you find an excellent bowfishing bow?  Well to help you out here, I have had a good look around and come up with three good options below.

Let’s check the out.

My three recommended bowfishing bows

I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience: 

02/19/2024 04:00 am GMT

What are bowfishing bows?

Bowfishing bows are effectively a traditional bow and arrow with a fishing line attached to allow you to retrieve your catch once you have snared it.  Many utilize sophisticated compound or lever-action bows outfitted with laser sights.

It should be noted here however that Bowfishing is really only undertaken for close-quarter shooting from a bank or pier.

Bowfishing bows - boy with bowfishing bow

What should you be looking for?

The following factors should be considered as you look for a good bowfishing bow.

  1. Type of bow
  2. Draw length
  3. Draw weight
  4. Reels
  5. Fishing arrows
  6. Additions

Type of bow

Four kinds of bowfishing bows are available, each with advantages and disadvantages as follows:.

  1. Recurve bows:   When it comes to bowfishing bows, recurve bows are the timeless, conventional choice. They are simple bows with forward-curving tips that give them their strength and are lightweight and straightforward to maintain. For beginners, these characteristics are advantageous with the ability to shoot and release an arrow swiftly. On the other hand, recurve bows typically need a little more strength and proficiency to be used effectively.
  2. Compound bowsCompound bows are excellent for bowfishing and are undoubtedly the bows of choice for hunters and archers. These bows get their power from a system of cables and pulleys and are speedy and precise thanks to their levering technique. However compound bows can offer certain potential drawbacks when bowfishing, such as the possibility of cam jamming due to mud and weeds.
  3. Lever bowsThe lever bows combine certain features of the recurve and compound bows and generate power by using a lever system on their limbs. The lever bows have a smooth draw and can shoot as fast as a recurve. Their construction also includes a breakpoint, similar to a compound bow, so the user does not need to hold the entire weight of the draw after pulling back. One well-known issue with lever bows is that they are slower than other bows, such as compound bows, but shoot faster than recurve bows.
  4. Wheel bows: The last kind of bows for bowfishing are known for their cams in a round, wheel pattern. These bows have very smooth draws and lack the traditional “let-off” of most compound bows. Because many archers do not use bows with a let-off function, they are an excellent choice for bowfishing.

Draw length

When selecting a bow, you should ascertain its maximum draw length to ensure that it will be a good fit for you. As the name implies, the draw length is the length to which a bow can be drawn. It is highly recommended that you visit a local archery center for a truly accurate reading to calculate the correct size.

If this isn’t possible, you’ll need to enlist the assistance of a friend or family member and then:

  1. Spread your arms into a ‘T’ position as far as they will go, and have someone measure the distance between the tips of your right and left hands – palms forward.
  2. Divide the number by 2.5 to get an idea of your draw length. A good compound fishing bow should have different draw lengths, allowing you to produce various power, speed, and control of your shots.

Draw weight

On the other hand, the draw weight is a simple measure of how much force is required to pull the string to a complete draw. All else being equal, the higher the draw weight, the more force is imparted to the arrow hence increasing its speed and energy.

A reasonable minimum weight for fishing is around 40 pounds as you need enough energy to propel a heavy fishing arrow through the water and deep into a fish. Adjustable draw weights allow you to set your bow lower as you get used to it or learn to shoot, then raise it when you go fishing.

Reels

When it comes to bowfishing reels, you will find three kinds as follows:

  1. Drum reels: These reels are considered the most basic. When you hit a fish, you would need to pull it towards you manually. 
  2. Spin reels: These reels are similar to spin cast reels. They are typically mounted on a seat in front of the bow.
  3. Retriever/bottle reels: These reels are the most popular consideration for bowfishing reels. 
Bowfishing bows - kid bowfishing

Fishing arrows

Arrows for bowfishing are significantly different from their counterparts in the world of traditional archery. Bowfishing arrows have sturdier designs and are typically constructed using fiberglass, solid aluminum or carbon fiber.

As you shop for bowfishing bows, check if they come with fishing arrows included. You will notice that the arrows possess a barbed head necessary to skewer the fish effectively.

Additions

Other potential additions include:

  1. Handle: Like with our other fishing gear, the handle of the bowfishing bow should be ergonomic to give us a better grip on the equipment.
  2. Arrow holder: This feature helps rest an arrow when you are idle or observing the fishing area.
  3. Warranty: Equipment that comes with a warranty is usually a good buy because you are guaranteed the product is new and has undergone quality control.

FAQ

Can any bow be used for bowfishing?

Yes, you can use pretty much any type of bow that you like whether it be compound or a recurve. From there, if not manufactured specifically for fishing, you will need to adapt it via the addition of a bowfishing reel and line. You will also need specialized fishing arrows that are of a sturdier design and a barbed tip.

My three recommendations broken down

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. Muzzy Bowfishing Kit with Compound Bow

My first bowfishing option here comes with impressive functionality with a pre spooled reel and arrow rest included. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Muzzy
  • Construction material: Blend
  • Type: Compound
  • Draw length: 24.5 inches to 31 inches
  • Draw weight: 30 to 60 pounds
  • Item weight: 7.25 pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Integrated reel seat
  • Ambidextrous orientation
  • Arrow rest

Why have I chosen it?

This kit comes with a cutting-edge design that provides a strong and durable bow with a super smooth action and precise adjustability, increasing your chances of landing your prized fish.  Draw weight and length are easily adjustable to meet the demands of the individual shooter, with a draw length range of 24.5′′-31′′ and a draw weight range of 30-60 lbs. It can also shoot arrows at speeds of up to 320 feet per second ensuring smooth, powerful, and accurate shots every time.


2. CenterPoint AVCT40KT Typhon Compound Bow Fishing Kit

This bowfishing bow is another excellent option with versatile construction and design. It comes fully assembles with a 100-pound test dynamo line and adjustable draw weights and draw lengths to fit most users.  See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Centerpoint
  • Construction material: Aluminum and fiberglass
  • Type: Compound
  • Draw length: 19 inches to 29 inches
  • Draw weight: 15 to 55 pounds
  • Item weight: 5 pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Arrow rest
  • Rubberized handle
  • 100-pound text dynamo line

Why have I chosen it?

This bowfishing bow caters to novice and experienced bowfishers alike thanks to its wide range of draw length and weight.  Another excellent selling point is the product’s ability to be used by right and left-handed anglers and it also comes with a 28-inch axle-to-axle length coupled with a generous 7-inch brace height giving you great maneuverability. It also has a great grip and double locking aluminum reel seat for extra stability as well.


3. Muzzy LV-X Bowfishing Lever Bow

My last bowfishing bow is of premium quality and gives you many options including various draw lengths and weight ranges. It comes ready to use out of the box pre-spooled with 150′ of 150-lb of Tournament Test Line included. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Muzzy
  • Construction material: Blend
  • Type: Lever
  • Draw length: 25 inches to 29 inches
  • Draw weight: 25 to 50 pounds
  • Item weight: 4 pounds

Other inclusions:

  • Integrated reel seat
  • Arrow rest
  • Fiberglass bowfishing arrow

Why have I chosen it?

Made by trusted manufacturers, this fishing bow made using the finest materials to achieve bulletproof construction. Upon purchase, you receive not only a top-performing bow but a fiberglass arrow so that you are good to go.  It has adjustable draw length (25 to 29 inches) and weight (25 to 50 pounds) with a versatile let-off ranging from 0 to 60%, which leads to smooth performance and the ability to fire arrows up to 320 fps.

Muzzy Bowfishing Vice Bowfishing Kit with Compound Bow, Pre-Spooled Reel, Arrow Rest and Arrow – Right Hand, Green, One Size, 7905
$299.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 04:00 am GMT
CenterPoint AVCT40KT Typhon Complete Compound Bow Fishing Kit , Axle to Axle: 33"
$329.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 04:07 am GMT

Conclusion

There you have it, my three best fish bowfishing bows for your fishing needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul

Beachandfishing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Leave a Comment

Hi, I'm Paul

I am a passionate fishing, camping and four wheeled driving hobbyist who researches, tests and educates around issues and equipment relevant to them.

I am by no means a professional however my passion is to assist you in making informed decisions about buying and using awesome gear that will give you the best chance of success at whatever you are doing for the best price.

Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Paul