AMS Bowfishing -- Expert Guide to Saving
AMS Bowfishing: Bows, Reels, and Arrows for Bowfishing
AMS Bowfishing is a leading manufacturer of bowfishing equipment -- specialized bows, bowfishing reels, arrows, and accessories for the sport of bowfishing. Bowfishing combines archery with fishing, using a bow and arrow to shoot fish visible in shallow water. The sport is legal for invasive species like common carp, grass carp, and garfish across most of the US and provides an active, skill-intensive recreational fishing experience.
Bowfishing Equipment Essentials
A complete bowfishing setup requires: a bow (recurve, compound, or specialized bowfishing compound), a bowfishing reel (spincast or bottle-style that holds heavy braided line), bowfishing arrows (solid fiberglass or carbon arrows with specialized barbed points that retrieve the fish), a slide or safety slide (to prevent the arrow from snapping back), and a retriever system. AMS offers complete ready-to-shoot bow packages that simplify entry into the sport.
Bow Selection for Bowfishing
Bowfishing uses lighter draw weights than hunting (typically 30-45 pounds), since shooting into water at close range doesn't require arrow penetration through thick hide. Recurve bows are the most affordable entry point ($80-$200 complete); compound bows provide let-off that reduces fatigue during long shooting sessions ($150-$400 for bowfishing-specific compounds). AMS produces purpose-built bowfishing compounds with integrated stabilizers and reel mounts.
Legal Species and Regulations for Bowfishing
Bowfishing regulations vary by state and waterbody. Most states permit bowfishing for rough fish and invasive species including common carp, grass carp, bighead carp, suckers, gar, and bowfin. Some states restrict bowfishing for game fish (bass, catfish, crappie) or require specific licenses. Confirming legal species and seasons at your specific state fish and wildlife agency before bowfishing ensures legal compliance.
Optimal Locations and Conditions for Bowfishing
Bowfishing is most productive in clear, shallow water where fish are visible -- less than 4 feet depth with 2+ feet of visibility. Spawning periods in spring, when carp and gar move into shallow areas, create peak bowfishing conditions. Night bowfishing with powerful lights ($50-$300 for LED arrays or large spotlights) attracts baitfish and therefore larger fish to shallow water. Bowfishing platforms on boats, or wading in shallow flats, provide typical hunting setups.
Using SaveSpire for Fishing and Archery Equipment Discounts
SaveSpire maintains promotional codes for outdoor sports retailers and fishing equipment brands. Before purchasing AMS Bowfishing equipment or other bowfishing gear, checking SaveSpire for available discount codes can reduce cost. Archery and fishing specialty retailers periodically run promotional events accessible through coupon aggregators.
Caring for Bowfishing Equipment
Bowfishing equipment requires post-use maintenance for longevity. Rinse all equipment thoroughly with fresh water after every outing to remove aquatic vegetation, mud, and scales that accelerate corrosion and material degradation. Inspect arrows for cracks or damage after each use -- cracked bowfishing arrows can break dangerously on release. Dry and lubricate reels before storage to prevent corrosion in the bearings.
Q: Do I need a special fishing license for bowfishing?
Most states require both an archery license/permit and a standard fishing license for bowfishing. Some states issue specific bowfishing endorsements. Requirements vary by species -- rough fish may be licensable under a standard fishing license while specific invasive species may have additional requirements or no license required in some states. Always check your state's fish and wildlife regulations before fishing.
Q: What pound test line should I use for bowfishing?
Bowfishing lines must withstand the jerk of arrow retrieval and the fight of large fish. AMS and other bowfishing brands recommend 250-pound test braided Dacron or similar high-strength line for most applications. This heavy line tolerates the abrasion from dragging through rocks and vegetation while handling large carp or gar without risk of line failure during retrieval.