Hitting your target right on the spot is one of the most challenging when it comes to bowfishing. It will require mastery of skills, and of course, the right gear. With that, you should not ignore the importance of the best bowfishing arrow.
Like in the case of traditional archery, an arrow will complement the bow. There are times when they are purchased as a kit, along with the reel, but you can also buy an arrow separately if you are not comfortable with the one that you are currently using.
The right arrow is an essential component of your bowfishing rig. It will lessen frustration by improving your accuracy when shooting. To make the latter possible, it is important that you choose only the best product available, which include those that will be briefly mentioned in the rest of this post.
What Makes Bowfishing Arrows Different?
When you are shopping for bowfishing arrows, you might end up being confused. A lot of novices may instantly think that they can choose any arrow that is meant for archery and hunting. Well, truth is, not just any arrow would suffice! You need to find one that is designed exclusively for bow fishing.
Compared to those that are used in traditional archery, the arrows for bowfishing are generally stronger and heavier. They are made of materials that can demonstrate exceptional strength.
Another common characteristic of a bowfishing arrow is that it does not have fletching. When there is fletching, there is a tendency that the arrow will end up flaring to one side. It there is fletching, the arrow will be diverted as it moves to the water.
While the arrow should be made specifically for bowfishing, you can use any bow that is meant for archery. Whether it is compound or recurve bow, you will be good, provided that you complement it with the best type of arrow.
How to Set up a Bowfishing Arrow
Setting the arrow is one of the most important things when it comes to increasing the likelihood that you will hit the target. Luckily, setting it does not have to be difficult, even if you are a beginner. If you are a newbie, you will struggle a bit, but do not give up. It is an easy task if you know how to do it the right way.
The grooves and the notches in the slide are important because they will provide the guidance that the string needs to be in the right direction. While setting the arrow, just relax. To have the string secured, an overhand knot will suffice. You do not actually need to tie the arrow to the string. Instead, all that you need is to create a loop where the arrow will lock when it slides.
Parts of a Bowfishing Arrow
Generally speaking, there are two parts that make up an arrow – shaft and point.
The shaft is recognized as the arrow’s backbone. It is heavy, basically because an arrow for fishing needs to be stronger and penetrate deep into its target. This will make it easy to punch the fish, even if it comes with tough scales. It is recommended that you use the arrow at full length instead of cutting it to suit the draw length of the bow. The extra length will actually be an advantage since it will add weight to the arrow, providing it with increased hitting power.
The arrow points, meanwhile, are the ones that you can find at the end of the arrow, which directly pierces the fish upon making contact. There are many different kinds of tips or heads, but you should choose one depending on the fish that you intend to catch. You should spend the time to differentiate the options and choose the best bowfishing arrow tip.
If you plan to catch a huge river carp, choose a tip that has a high penetration power. On the other hand, for a lake gar, a smaller arrow will be enough. It will also be best if you will have different arrowheads. If they are replaceable, your shaft can be multipurpose as you can use it in various situations. All that you need to do is to replace the tip.
Speaking of the tip, their designs can vary. They can either come with a broadhead or field tip. The field tip is thin and pointy, which is a great choice for a small fish. It is also a common pick for target practice. On the other hand, in the case of a broadhead tip, there are two to four blades on the end that can cut and pierce even large fish.
An accessory that you will need in a bowfishing arrow is a safety slide system. This is optional, but I suggest that you use an arrow with a slide system. This will maintain the line in front the bow, preventing the former from tangling.
What is the Bowfishing Arrow Made Of?
The material of the arrow is an important consideration since it will be indicative of its overall quality. This section will briefly mention the most common materials that you will find.
1. Fiberglass
For an average rig, this material will be more than enough. They are a more common option and many budget-conscious buyers choose it because of its economical price tag. The consistency of the spine and straightness, however, can be compromised. Nonetheless, speaking from a general perspective, most of the fiberglass arrows can withstand wear.
2. Carbon
This is a common material that you can find in the newer types of bowfishng arrows. They also tend to be on the higher end of the market. The spine is tighter and straighter. Because it is straighter, you can also expect that it is going to make more accurate shots. They are also great in terms of handling impact, making it able to tolerate even a higher draw weight.
3. Hybrids
As it is already obvious, this is an arrow that uses a combination of fiberglass and carbon. This is able to offer the best of both worlds. Since it combines the benefits of the two materials, you can expect excellent performance without the need to spend too much.
How to Choose an Arrow for Bowfishing
Before we proceed with the short reviews of some of the top products available, let me give you some tips on how you can make the right decision.
- Read online reviews, which will help you learn from the experiences of other people. You will be able to weigh the pros and cons of the possibilities and decide which one is best for your next fishing trip.
- Go beyond price. Being cheap is not always the best option, especially if the quality is compromised. It is better to spend more if it means being able to enjoy better performance.
- Choose an arrow that is heavy over one that is lightweight. Heavier arrows will have stronger power upon impact, making sure that the fish will not escape.
- You should also opt for a longer arrow than one that is short. Do not cut the arrow. It is better if you keep its original length.
Our Top Picks for Bowfishing Arrows
Let me make your life easier. If you don’t know which one to buy, below are some of the options that you might want to consider.
1. AMS Fiberglass Bowfishing Arrow with Chaos Arrow Point
Among other things, one that I personally like the most about the construction of the arrow is the presence of a cyclone tip, which is great in terms of improving penetration. This will increase the likelihood that your target won’t be able to escape.
Another thing that is notable about the arrow tip is how it comes with vibration-dampening construction, which effectively makes it more stable.
It is also great that it comes with fiberglass construction. This makes it exceptional in terms of durability and providing the best bang for the buck.
The safety slide is also a plus. To use the arrow, all that you have to do is to attach the string to the reel and you are all set to shoot!
The shaft of the arrow has a length of 32 inches. The orange color is also a good thing since it improves its visibility.
2. Muzzy Bowfishing Arrow with Point
One of the features that you will find impressive in this product is the installation of the quick release gar point. The latter will improve the penetration rate, even when you are targeting a fish with tough skin.
Like many of the bowfishing arrows, it is also constructed with the use of premium fiberglass.
The arrow already comes installed with nock and bottle slide, which is going to simplify its assembly in your bow.
However, it is important to note that the tips can be prone to rust, so be sure to not leave it in the boat for a long time. Keep it in a case.
3. Muzzy Bowfishing Classic Fish Arrow with Carp Point
One of the defining features of this bowfishing arrow is the quick release design. With the latter, all that you have to do is to turn the tip in two turns and the fish will be released.
It also comes with rugged fiberglass construction, which is why you can expect it to perform well when it comes to durability.
Other features that you can find in this product include a pre-drilled arrow that will make it easy to attach the string and quick-release 1018 Trocar-tipped carp point.
4. 35-inch Bowfishing Fish Arrows
This set is already inclusive of three high-quality arrows, each weighing only 100 grams each. The length, on the other hand, is 35 inches.
In terms of material, the head of the arrow is made of stainless steel, which is tough and can easily penetrate the fish once it is pierced. The cyclone tip is also one reason why it offers excellent penetration. The shaft, on the other hand, is made of solid fiberglass.
It also has a quick release feature, which will make it possible to release the fish from the arrow simply by making two turns.
5. Jiexi Hwyp Stainless Steel Fishing Arrow
Whether it is for slingshot or bowfishing, this is another arrow that can prove to be a promising choice. It comes in a pack of six, and with its price, this is definitely going to be easy on the wallet.
The arrows are made of 304 stainless steel. Each arrow weighs 17 grams while the length is 13.8 centimeters.
6. Aiersha Trading Company Fish Hunting Arrow
Similar to the product that has been mentioned above, this also comes with a set of six. However, it is more expensive, which might make some people hesitant in choosing it.
The main material is also fiberglass, which is typical for the bowfishing arrows. The length is 34 centimeters while the shaft diameter is 8 millimeters. Each arrow weighs approximately 100 grams.
Lastly, it is designed with a bright yellow nock, which will be excellent when it comes to visibility.
7. Cajun Bowfishing Garpoon Yellow Jacket Arrow with Slide
This arrow comes with a yellow jacket, which is great in terms of its durability. The main material used is a fusion of yellow fiberglass and black carbon fiber. Compared to most of the shafts in bowfishing arrows, it is 65% stronger.
Given the construction of the arrow, the manufacturer notes that it will be compatible even if you are using a bow with a higher draw weight.
8. Huntingdoor 6-Pack Bowfishing Arrow
This is another arrow that is made of fiberglass, making it an affordable option, although the performance is not as stellar as those that are made of carbon.
With this arrow, the length is 34 inches, diameter is 8 millimeters, and the weight is 110 grams per piece.
It comes with a nock that is already attached at the end of the arrow, unlike in the case of others wherein you still need to glue them.
Conclusion
The arrow is one of the most important gears to have when bowfishing. It is what will shoot the fish, making sure that you will hit your target on the spot. Consider the products mentioned above if you are undecided on what to choose. With the right arrow, it will be easier to take home the freshest catch!
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