Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, bowfishing’s social elements please everyone, everywhere. It’s also fun, interactive and fast-paced.
Steve Coombs, owner of Herndon Archery in Kentucky, is a licensed bowfishing guide who runs a bowfishing charter. He charges about $125 per person for four-hour bowfishing excursions, which include snacks, rental equipment and endless shooting opportunities.
Steve Coombs with Herndon Archery takes patrons out on bowfishing charters where they usually end up befriending the other patrons. Photo Credit: Herndon Archery Facebook
These fun excursions encourage participants to talk, laugh, share stories and celebrate great shots. Experiences like those make people love bowfishing.
Brian Schiesser, a bowfishing enthusiast and active-duty Army soldier, got hooked after bowfishing with Coombs four years ago.
“I love bowfishing,” Schiesser said. “Being out on the water with friends is so enjoyable. It allows you to bond, connect and talk about anything that comes to mind.”
Those factors make bowfishing’s social dynamics unbeatable. In comparison, bowhunting is a silent, solitary activity that often requires participants to sit like statues for hours.
Schiesser likes it so much he bought a bowfishing setup, and mounted big lights atop his boat and a generator to power them for nighttime action. He helps Coombs by taking beginners along, and enjoys the camaraderie.
“We can put two groups together that have never met before, and by the end of the night it’s like they’ve known each other for years,” Schiesser said. “You can make a lifelong friend on the water.”
He said it’s easy to forge friendships while shooting fish.
Coombs agrees.
Unlike hunting wildlife on land, you don’t have to worry about being quiet. You can talk and laugh as much as you want while bowfishing. Photo Credit: ATA
“It doesn’t matter who you’re with,” Coombs said. “People have fun when they bowfish.”
Ready to try bowfishing? Find a guide who knows where to go and provides quality equipment to help you succeed. Guides teach beginners where to aim, how to use the equipment, and which fish species are legal targets. They want their clients to have safe, positive experiences.
Ask your friends and family members to try bowfishing with you, but don’t be afraid to go solo. Charters usually pair individuals or couples with others until reaching their boat’s capacity.
Once you book a trip, read bowfishing articles to prepare. If you’re a DIY person, read “Here’s What You Need to Start Bowfishing” for tips and information to get started.
