Bowfishing for Snakehead: A Beginner's Guide
Because snakehead live shallow and can't be released alive where they're invasive, they're an ideal bowfishing species. Sight-fishing them on the flats is a blast.
Gear
A dedicated bowfishing bow or a recurve rigged with a reel, heavy fiberglass arrows with barbed points, and a good pair of polarized glasses. Many bowfishers run shallow-draft boats with elevated decks and lights for night shooting.
Technique
Snakehead sit just under the surface in grass and around fry balls. Because of light refraction, aim low — the fish is deeper than it appears. Move slowly and scan the edges of vegetation.
When
Late spring through summer, when fish are shallow guarding fry, is prime. Calm, clear water and bright sun make spotting easier.
Always confirm that bowfishing for snakehead is legal and in-season where you are — see our state regulations guide.
