No Catch & Release for Bow Hunting As I said above, it is called fishing, but it’s really hunting. I say this because the target is shot and leaving it seriously wounded or killed. Unlike fishing, catch and release is generally futile. If a bow hunter goes hunting for game, he would not consider pulling the arrow out and let the game go free just to suffer and die. When an archer goes hunting for fish, he should keep this in mind. There is no sportsmanship in killing for the sake of target practice.
By Dale A. Stafford I know by talking with fellow hunters there is very seldom a hunter with the same taste or hunting style. Just show up at your local coffee shop during hunting season. You’d swear the manufacturers were paying them for their marketing skills. Prime example of this is: I have a very good friend that produced two of the top-selling compound bows. One made Outdoor Life for top rated seller of the year. With that being said, he prefers to shoot a longbow. He preached in his seminars the differences between a pass through and minimal penetration of an arrow. He prefers minimal so the arrow can dig into the vitals every time the animal takes a step. The difference between us is I prefer my arrow with a large entrance and exit hole, with the arrow buried 10” into the ground on the other side. So, here being great friends we have two completely different opinions. What I can do is give you logical advice to help you choose the right crossbow. That is to get out to your nearest dealer and sling a few bolts down the range. Try all the brands and models he has to offer. Believe me; you will fall in love with them all. The dealer will point out some of the positive things that some crossbows have that will fit your needs. They will inform you on necessities you may find that will work well for you when you’re hunting. They will point out ones that seem good, but may be more of a hindrance to you. You have to ask yourself, what are you willing to spend? Some of the crossbows are very expensive while the others less expensive. Whatever you choose, I don’t think there is a bad crossbow on the market today. After you purchase the crossbow of your choice, another frequent question is asked, “What type of arrow should I use?” Crossbow arrows are normally called bolts. The bolt used for the crossbow usually depends on the model and manufacture of the crossbow. Another thing you should consider is the knock. Usually there are two styles; a flat knock which should be used with the Horton & Barnett Crossbows, while the other is a half-moon knock used with the Excalibur & Ten Point Crossbows. One other thing you should consider is the length of the bolt. They range from 16” to 22.” The bolts should be matched for the crossbow you purchase. Do not take this lightly or you could get seriously injured. With that being said, most crossbows are very smooth with fast shooting with extreme accuracy. With a little practice, you will be filling your freezer & stuffing sausages. Be sure to check your rule books as most states don’t allow hunting with crossbows unless you have some type of disability permit or are a senior over 65 years of age. For Wisconsin residents cross your fingers, crossbow hunting may be just around the corner. Happy Hunting and good luck this hunting season!
2014 Page 40 • Midwest Hunting & Fishing - March-April 2014
Consider the Purpose of Hunting A good sportsman would consider the game targeted, and what they intend to do with the killed animal. In most cases, hunting is for meat. So should be bow hunting for fish. When an archer targets a fish, the archer should consider what is planned for the targeted fish. If an archer would go online prior to going hunting for fish, the archer would find many recipes for all the fish being targeted. The most prevalent fish that bow fishers target are generally called rough fish. Rough fish are fish that most anglers don’t fish. In several states, rough fish are generally not regulated, so shooting them isn’t illegal.
Laws Regarding the Use of a Bow If you decide to go bow fishing, you should first contact your fish and game representatives. It is regulated in most states and violating sporting laws are expensive. So check out the rules first. If you plan to bow fish public waterways and public parks, carrying a bow might be illegal. While a bow is not considered a firearm, it is considered a lethal weapon and thus you must comply with local, state and federal laws. The old saying of an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, really fits when caring a bow. Fines and possibly jail time will ruin your trip. So make sure you understand the regulations. As a note, you will find that rough fish are excellent to eat, when properly prepared. Enjoy your bow hunting for fish trip and try some new recipes for the fish you shoot. Enjoying your fish will be just as enjoyable as any other game you shoot. Larysa Switlyk • Flickr.com
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