First year out need a little help!!!!

[kilkercal615]

Well I went to gander mtn today and bought a bowfishing kit for my bow. Me and a buddy of mine have always wanted to get into it and give it a try. I don't really know much about it and don't know anyone that does it. I got my bow riged up this afternoon and now all I have to do is try to learn as I go and get the basics down. If you guys have any advice for a beginner let me know. Also I have a few places I am thinking about going but if you know of any good spots around Prior Lake or anywhere in the metro that would be great to.....Thanks for your help.

[Traxxx]

How much was the kit? I did it once with a buddy and it was a blast. The only tip I can tell you is to aim low because when the arrow enters the water it refracts from like a 45 degree angles to about a 75 degree angle. It will probably vary a little depending on water depth, current and distance.

[kilkercal615]

I bought the cheap kit it was only like 25$ for the real, line, and arrow. They do have a lot nicer ones out there but i figured I would try it before I dig to deep into my wallet.

[carpshooter]

aim low

do you have a way or place to dispose of your fish?

[kilkercal615]

Ya I am going to try smoking some of them...I live on a farm to so the ones that I don't smoke I will put out in the field.

[Traxxx]

How do the arrows hold up if you hit a rock?

[kilkercal615]

Not sure haven't tried it yet but the arrows are pretty heavy duty so I think they should hold up pretty good

[sparcebag]

I Never broke a arrow but I have ruined tips on rocks.

[HUNTFISH69]

The muzzy fiberglass arrows hold up very well, if you hit a rock you'll mess up your tips, but i've never actually snapped one, i've cracked a few in my day from rocks, logs, and lots of use, but they still work while cracked, as long as your safety slide and stopper parts aren't loose, which tends to happen.

Technically they work without a slide system, but they don't shoot as nice and it can be dangerous

[GAP]

I've broke about every carp arrow there is but i shoot in some pretty rocky areas.

[ghotierman]

Other tips for the first timer:

Aim Low...can't say it enough. say it to yourself before every shot...you'll say it after as well.

You'll miss a lot too...don't get discouraged.

Turn the poundage down. You'll be pulling quick and hopefully often, so you're not using the same poundage you did in the fall.

Instinctive shooting is best, ditch the sights.

Polarized sunglasses are a key piece of equipment.

With the kit, you most likely have a drum or spool...watch the wind and the loose line, make sure it's wrapped and ready for each shot.

Aim low.

use a safety slide. don't tie the line directly to the arrow, it's very dangerous.

and of course, AIM LOW!

Have fun...it's probably one of the best forms of hunting there is!