Question about bowfishing regulations?

[Phantasy_Fishing]

I can't find any information on this, and I've tried contacting the DNR with no response. I just need some clarifications on Bowfishing regulations.

From what I read so far, bowfishing is usually performed from a boat. My question is about bowfishing on the shore. Are there any regulations requiring a bowfishermen to stay a certain distance away from other people while discharging an arrow?

In the 2013 Minnesota Fishing Regulations, on page 76, it states:

"Cannot discharge an arrow while bowfishing within 150 ft of occupied structures or within 300 ft of campsite from sunset to sunrise"

I assume this refers bowfishing from a boat, and as the boat approached an occupied structure, the bowfishermen cannot discharge an arrow within that distance.

Is it legal for a bowfishermen to come onto a crowded fishing dock, and discharge an arrow? If a person cannot discharge an arrow within 150 of an occupied structure while on a boat, would discharging an arrow while on an occupied structure be just as bad? Assuming if a fishing pier counts as an "occupied structure"?

So basically, I need clarification on 2 things.

1) What is defined as an occupied structure? A fishing pier? A fishing platform? An occupied house that is close to the water's edge? A picnic table close to the water's edge?

2)While bowfishing on the shore, are there any regulations requiring a bowfishermen to stay a certain distance away from other people while discharging an arrow?

Thank you. All responses welcomed.

[mrklean]

Personally i would use judgement on this one, are you looking to go out on a dock with 3-4 people on it and shoot carp? I wouldn't do it, or at least first ask people if its ok with them. Are you looking to do this in the metro or out of the metro, in the metro i believe cities have there own laws on discharging a bow in city limits so you might need to call the city to check. Just a few things to think about.

[Archerysniper]

A occupied structure can be anything a person is occupying. It can be a boat anchored in the middle of the lake or a dock with a person sitting on it. If you run into someone occupying a structure just stay back 300 feet or ask them if it is ok to come closer.

[Neighbor_guy]

as a general rule, if there are other people fishing at a spot I wanted to bowfish from, I move on.

Now if I am already standing there bow in hand, possibly fish in the tub and they show up, I stay. At least for a little while.

Right now bowifishing is a sport with a little bit of a public relations problem. I dont want to give them any reason to be upset with me for doing something I enjoy and is legal. Once a vocal minority gets worked up about something that they know nothing about they can get things changed in a hury.

Good Luck..

[Stick500]

I agree with many of the good tips from the previous posters.

I'm learning some new things about shore bowfishing safety and etiquette this month as I am around other people for the first time. I'm finding that even if there's more fish where the people are, I am enjoying it more by getting away from the crowds even tho I might be getting less action. Makes me kinda nervous with others around and then they have to pull up lines if I get one, etc.

I like the solitude and control I have in my own spot. That's easy to say this time of the year as the carp seem to be all over the place!