With summer in full swing, the days have become hotter and longer. The heat this time of year may keep many sportsmen indoors, but there are still several activities that can be done.
One activity that is most enjoyable this time of year is bowfishing. This sport has gained popularity over the years with the rise in numbers of Asian carp.
Bowfishing during the summer is a great way to beat the heat, since most anglers do it at night. It can also be very rewarding in yielding many large fish that can be taken home and eaten.
Just like with any other outdoor activity, the regulations must be taken into account before beginning. One must possess a valid fishing permit to bowfish. Only certain species of fish may be taken by this method, and these fish can be found in the Wildlife Code of Missouri in rule 3 CSR 10-6.550.
This rule also explains the limits of fish that can be taken. Fish taken by this rule must be retained by the taker.
Bowfishing is prohibited in some areas of the state. One example of these areas is the St. Francis River within 700 feet below the walls of the Wappapello spillway.
A list of rules and regulations for bowfishing, such as restricted areas and hours that it is allowed, can also be found in the fishing regulations pamphlets for Missouri or on the Missouri Department of Conservation website, mdc.mo.gov.