Bowfishing combines the precision of archery with the excitement of hunting underwater. This comprehensive guide evaluates top bowfishing arrows, comparing their materials, designs, and performances to help you choose the right arrow for your next aquatic adventure.
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Reviews
This premium bowfishing arrow brings a new level of visibility to your nightfishing adventures with its glow-in-the-dark shaft. The 2-barb Grapple Point tip ensures solid penetration whether your arrow is soaring through the air or diving beneath the water's surface. Built tough with full stainless steel construction, it's designed for consistent performance in any bowfishing situation.
These brightly lit bowfishing arrows pack impressive durability into a surprisingly lightweight design. The carefully balanced 80/20 fiberglass-carbon construction combines strength with shaft straightness for consistent performance. The dual-barbed point system makes quick work of even the toughest carp, while the built-in lighted nock shines brightly in the dark for added confidence during night sessions.
The Archenemy Tournament Series bowfishing arrows blend durability with penetrating power, featuring a precision machined tip that slices through tough gar scales while barbed points keep your catch from slipping away. These high-strength fiberglass arrows, available with or without an AMS slide, perform well in practice—some users report snagging fish consistently without dulling tips or breaking shafts. While opinions vary, many find them reliable for budget-conscious bowfishers who prioritize penetration over every-other-shot reliability.
Made from durable carbon fiber with a tough fiberglass core, these arrows give you consistent results every time you shoot. The replaceable barbed point makes it easy to catch fish, while the special sliding tip lets you release your catch without damaging the equipment. American-made and built to last, they're perfect for serious bowfishermen who want top-quality gear.
The Muzzy Sabre brings a distinctive glow to bowfishing with its translucent fiberglass shaft and integrated 22-inch glow stick. This first-of-its-kind arrow system enhances visibility during night sessions, helping anglers track their shot and follow fish in the dark. The non-toxic, waterproof light lasts up to 24 hours and pairs with a durable, penetration-tested design that excels in deep water.
This robust bowfishing arrow cuts through tough scales with its heavy 575 grain stainless steel point, while its six-sided hardened tip and toothed barbs ensure a solid grip on even the biggest catches like carp, gar, and stingrays. The premium construction combines durability with precision, giving you reliable performance in the water. The precision-engineered arrow features a pre-installed slim nock and slide system for smooth flight and quick removal from your prized catches.
Crafted from 80% fiberglass and 20% carbon for strength and accuracy, the Muzzy bowfishing arrow packs a punch while staying lightweight. Its cross-hole design makes it versatile for different mounting options, and the built-in lighted nock helps you spot your shots in low light. The tough construction and reliable Gar Point tip system give you a solid edge in the water, though some users have experienced issues with the slide.
Made from durable red fiberglass with a distinctive 4 Barb Stinger point, this bowfishing arrow combines an improved shaft design with tougher barbs ideal for soft-fleshed fish. While some users have noted occasional point loosening issues, the overall durability has earned it a solid 4.2 rating based on 5 reviews, with particular praise for its effectiveness on silver carp and other soft-sided species.
The AMS Chaos bowfishing bolt combines premium materials and engineered design for superior performance in aquatic hunting. Its specialized construction, featuring solid fiberglass shafts with a half-moon nock, integrates seamlessly with crossbow systems. The included Chaos point demonstrates unmatched durability through its vibration-dampening tip, heavy-gauge wire barbs, and stainless steel composition, ensuring reliable performance across various fishing conditions.
These well-built iron arrows combine a sleek design with serious penetrating power, thanks to their carefully engineered barbed tips that expand upon impact for maximum hold. The machined steel construction and knurled tip design make them a reliable choice for both new and experienced bowfishers. While some users have noted minor quality control issues with previous batches, the solid performance and durable build make them worth considering for your next fishing setup.
These bowfishing arrows combine stainless steel and premium fiberglass for durability you can count on. The Taper-loc connection creates a smooth, secure bond that won't compromise your shot's accuracy. With a generous battery compartment and thoughtfully designed hole placement, these arrows deliver the performance you need for successful catches.
This lightweight bowfishing arrow combines durable stainless steel construction with a scientifically designed point that swings barbs aside for clean penetration. The replaceable tip screws in with standard threading, making it easy to swap out for different situations. A safety slide keeps everything tidy until you're ready to shoot.
Made in the USA, these AMS Chaos FX arrows combine premium stainless steel construction with durable hardened barbs for consistent performance. The replaceable Cyclone tip and ergonomic EverGlide Safety Slide enhance both penetration and safety, while the vibrant fluorescent green fiberglass shaft makes them easy to spot in the water.
The Muzzy Iron 2 Blade fish points combine a slim design with powerful penetration, thanks to their unique low-profile barb structure that keeps the outer barbs compact until impact. This bowfishing arrow features a robust machined steel construction with an ergonomic knurled tip for secure grip and rapid deployment. Each point expands dramatically upon entry, creating a solid 3-inch hold for the triple-barbed version and 2 inches for the dual-barbed model, ensuring your catch remains firmly in place.
The Muzzy Sabre takes nighttime bowfishing to a whole new level with its translucent fiberglass construction that houses a 22-inch glow stick – giving your arrow 24 hours of underwater visibility. The push-in nock system and front-weighted design ensure solid performance, while the non-toxic waterproof glow sticks come in multiple colors to match your style. You get 5 glow sticks with every purchase, enough for countless trips out on the lake.
This USA-made arrow combines durable stainless steel construction with an extra-long barbed point for reliable fish harvesting. The straight, glossy fibreglass shaft ensures accuracy, while the patented Safety Slide system enhances handling. Built to last, it's backed by real users who've taken down everything from small carp to 38-pound buffalo, with one fan declaring it a "fish killer" that works "bad ass. "
Made for bowfishing enthusiasts who want to improve their shot visibility and arrow durability, this carbon fish arrow combines a lightweight design with a built-in lighted nock for better aiming. The tough 80/20 fiberglass-carbon construction ensures the arrow stays straight and performs reliably, while the pre-drilled cross-hole makes it easy to add a line or safety slide. Though some users have reported issues with the slide fitting properly, the arrow's solid build quality and visibility features make it worth considering for your next catch.
Crafted from premium 5/16-inch carbon shaft with a solid fiberglass core, each Undertow arrow undergoes strict straightness inspection before assembly. The included 32-inch arrow features a tunable nock system and Cajun ACS Slide, while its 5/16-inch stainless steel Big-Head X-treme point glides through water with hydro-lok O-rings ensuring tight shaft tracking.
Crafted from durable fibreglass with military-grade accuracy, these arrows combine a 0.8cm shaft and premium Big-Head Point for consistent performance. While some users have experienced early failures like nock separation and component detachment, those who've mastered assembly report nearly impeccable accuracy and reliable performance. The included extra tips are a practical touch for any bowfisherman looking to maximize their setup.
The Muzzy Lighted Carbon Bowfishing Arrow combines premium durability with enhanced visibility through its Nockturnal lighted tip, making it a practical choice for anglers who want their shots to stand out in low-light conditions. Made from a blend of 80% fiberglass and 20% carbon, this 36-inch arrow offers excellent straightness and longevity, though some users have reported issues with the LED light burning out quickly and the arrow components breaking during normal use. Its tough construction and reliable 2-barbed tip help ensure solid arrow retention until the fish is landed, though durability can vary based on shooting technique and environmental factors.
This well-regarded bowfishing arrow combines a durable stainless steel point with a visible fluorescent shaft for clear underwater tracking. The ultra-thin nock enhances accuracy, while the lightweight design keeps your shot quick and responsive. While the replaceable point requires occasional maintenance, users consistently praise its effectiveness and value.
Handcrafted from stainless steel and USA-sourced materials, the Chaos FX point combines razor-sharp barbs and a vibration-dampening tip for reliable fish retention. Its replaceable Cyclone-style tip simplifies maintenance, while the straight fiberglass shaft ensures consistent performance. The result is a lightweight, durable arrow that handles everything from small game to monster carp.
This high-performing bowfishing arrow combines durable red fiberglass with black carbon fiber for a robust yet lightweight design. The four-barbed tip excels at securing soft-fleshed game like carp while remaining manageable for quick removal. Built to last, the arrow features replaceable tips that simplify maintenance and ensure reliable performance on every outing.
These bowfishing arrows combine a tough carbon-fiber and fiberglass shaft with a reversible Piranha long-barbed point that keeps your catch firmly attached. The included slide system makes it easy to switch between hook-and-line and bowfishing, while the precision-engineered construction ensures reliable performance on every cast.
This lightweight fiberglass arrow combines durable stainless steel construction with a cleverly designed three-barbed tip that collapses for minimal entry holes while expanding to create a strong hold. The AMS FX point delivers remarkable penetration and fish retention, making it particularly effective on larger or softer fleshed prey. The simple removal feature allows quick extraction without disassembly, perfect for any serious bowfisherman.
These fibreglass arrows, featuring a 250 grain stainless steel tip and fluorescent shaft, have attracted a string of disappointed reviews. Multiple users report severe durability issues, with the arrow's components frequently failing after minimal use – the nock breaking, the tip coming off, and the overall construction proving unreliable. At just 0.4oz, the lightweight design hasn't impressed anglers who find the arrow too brittle for consistent performance in the field.
Combining tough black carbon fiber with standard red fiberglass, these tournament-style arrows pack a punch that's perfect for taking down big carp and other tenacious fish. The reversible Sting-A-Ree point cuts through scales like a hot knife through butter, then twists free at the end of the fight so you can walk away with your catch. At just 0.3 ounces, the glue-on nock and safety slide work in harmony to keep your arrow flying true every time.
Made from premium materials including hardened stainless steel and high-visibility fiberglass, this bowfishing arrow combines durability with excellent visibility. Its replaceable point and slim nock design improve both accuracy and performance, while the weighted tip ensures reliable penetration on your target.
These Muzzy carbon arrows combine durable construction with added visibility features like a lighted nock for easy tracking. The bottle slide design prevents dangerous arrow snapback, while dual barbs ensure a secure hold on fish until you're ready to release your arrow. At just 36 inches long and 4 inches wide, these well-balanced arrows maintain impressive straightness for accurate shots, thanks to their 5/16" carbon composite construction.
When bowfishing, visibility can mean the difference between a successful catch and an empty reel – which is exactly why this carbon composite arrow from Muzzy features a built-in lighted nock that makes your shots easier to spot in low-light conditions. The arrow's 80/20 fiberglass and carbon construction keeps it strong enough to handle tough fish while remaining surprisingly straight and consistent from shot to shot. While it's designed with practical features like a cross-hole for tying line or added safety slide, one user reported problems with the nock fitting properly, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
Crafted from premium solid fiberglass with a quick-release Gar Point tip, the Muzzy classic white fish arrow delivers reliable penetration for tough-skinned fish. At 36 inches long, it's designed for both hunting and target shooting, with nocked and drilled tips for easy cable or string attachment. The bright white nocks blend visibility and durability, while the precision Gar Point ensures clean penetration on every shot.
These bowfishing arrows feature a unique full-containment rest design that allows them to be held at any angle, making them incredibly versatile for various fishing situations. The arrows' spring-locking barbs make it easy to catch your fish while keeping the tip securely in place, so you can quickly remove your catch without any hassle. At just 0.75 ounces, these lightweight arrows maintain excellent consistency and help ensure accurate shots during your fishing session.
These bowfishing arrows pack a serious punch thanks to their hardened bullet tip that holds up to repeated shots. The twin serrated barbs create a vice-like grip on your catch, while the dual friction rings ensure your arrow stays put during those bone-jarring impacts with underwater obstacles. At just a hair under an inch shorter than similar points, they maintain excellent flight characteristics while delivering the same solid performance. The attention to detail in their construction, whether you're battling through thick vegetation or punching through tough limestone bottoms, makes these arrows a wise investment for any serious bowfisherman.
AMS Chaos arrows combine superior craftsmanship with innovative design elements like the spiraled Cyclone point for enhanced penetration and the EverGlide Safety Slide system for smooth fish release. Their lightweight construction and consistent straightness make them highly reliable for both novice and experienced bowfishers, while the glossy fiberglass shafts add a stylish pop of pink to your quiver.
These carefully crafted fiberglass arrows combine durable stainless steel construction with a unique three-barb point that collapses on impact for reliable penetration. The clever twist-release mechanism makes fish removal quick and easy, while the built-in safety slide adds an extra layer of protection. Whether you're targeting large carp or elusive gar, these precision-engineered arrows have earned top marks from bow fishermen who've put them to the test.
These premium bowfishing arrows combine durable full stainless steel construction with practical glow-in-the-dark visibility for nighttime sessions. The dual-barb Grapple Point tip ensures reliable hook-ups whether the fish are above or below the water's surface. Built tough enough to handle serious Nile perch, these arrows prove themselves trip after trip without letting anglers down.
Founded in 1984, Muzzy has established itself as a leader in fixed-blade broadheads through innovative designs that combine durability with precision. The Classic White Fish Arrow exemplifies their engineering with a distinctive white tip that stands out in water, while the arrow's sturdy construction maintains performance through repeated use. Whether you're a novice or experienced bowfisherman, these arrows deliver consistent results in various fishing conditions.
The AMS Bowfishing Ankor qt arrow combines durable fiberglass construction with a uniquely effective three-barbed point design for reliable fish penetration. The lightweight Cyclone tip and collapsible barbs deliver both exceptional penetration and easy fish removal, while the USA-made arrow's 5/16" diameter shaft provides the strength needed for big fish fights. At 32 inches long and fully assembled with an EverGlide Safety Slide, these arrows are ready for immediate use on your next bowfishing adventure.
The Cajun Fiberglass Arrow pairs a proven red fiberglass shaft with a versatile Piranha XT point that can be barb-side up or down for quick fish removal. Made for bowfishing enthusiasts who want reliable performance and simple handling, this lightweight arrow features a stainless steel tip that screws on easily, keeping your catch secure and making it simple to extract your arrow after each shot. While some users have had issues with the nock retention and arrow curvature, many praise its durability and effectiveness, particularly when paired with the right bow setup.
Made for serious bowfishing, the PSE Fishstick Arrow combines a durable carbon shaft with a reliable Piranha point for keeping your catches. The stainless steel collar adds extra strength, while the safety slide lets you shoot confidently. While some users recommend drilling and pinning the points yourself, the arrow's affordability and performance make it a popular choice for river fishing.
With their 35-inch length and barbed tips, these three hunting arrows pack a punch for bowfishing. While some reviewers find the tips difficult to remove, others praise their effectiveness and value as a budget-friendly option. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, these arrows have proven reliable for both quick strikes and solid penetrations.
Crafted by experienced scuba divers, these lightweight arrow points pack a punch at just 22.2 grams. The simple design makes them easy to attach and remove, but some users have found them less durable than expected, with barbs bending after a few shots.
Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right bowfishing arrow involves considering several factors to ensure optimal performance, durability, and safety. The primary elements to evaluate include arrow construction, material, fletching, and point selection, each of which affects penetration capability, visibility, and reliability in the water.
Construction and Materials
Bowfishing arrows can be made from aluminum, carbon fiber, or a combination of both. Carbon arrows offer superior straightness and weight-to-strength ratio, making them more efficient for longer casts. Aluminum arrows, while heavier and with less penetration power, are more flexible and less prone to breakage, ideal for beginners or situations where extra flexibility is beneficial.
Fletching and Visibility
Fletching adds stability to the arrow during flight and helps it maintain its flight path. Traditional turkey feathers are a popular choice for visibility in low-light conditions and on murky waters. For enhanced tracking, consider brightly colored or reflective fletching at the rear of the arrow. The number and size of fletches balance visibility with aerodynamic performance; three fletches provide good stability with maximum visibility.
Point Selection and Penetration
The arrow point determines how effectively it penetrates various fish species and underwater structures. Judo points have a sharp V-shaped cutting edge for consistent penetration, while Bodkin points feature a solid shaft designed for maximum holding power in soft tissue. Hollow points and broadheads, though generally reserved for fishing applications, increase penetration by creating expansion after impact, similar to hunting arrow designs.
Length and Weight Considerations
Arrow length directly impacts penetration depth and fish detection. Longer arrows (commonly 30-32 inches) perform better in deep water and murky conditions but require more precision for casting. Weight affects both range and penetration: heavier arrows travel farther but lose momentum quickly upon impact, while lighter arrows maintain speed better but risk ricocheting off hard surfaces. A balanced approach typically involves an arrow that's heavier than standard target arrows but lighter than hunting designs suitable for bowfishing.
FAQ
What are bowfishing arrows specifically designed for?
Bowfishing arrows are engineered with specialized components optimized for capturing fish in water. Unlike traditional hunting arrows, they feature barbed tips that anchor in fish rather than passing through, and are constructed with materials that resist water absorption and maintain their integrity during immersion.
The arrows are often shorter than standard recurve arrows (typically 22-28 inches) to reduce resistance in water and improve casting efficiency. They use different fletching designs (such as streamline vanes or skirt fletching) to maintain stability in both air and water.
Bowfishing arrows come in various weight classes (usually 5-10 grain per inch of arrow shaft length), with heavier arrows (11+ grains per inch) offering increased penetration ability but reduced speed and range. Fish species size determines optimal arrow weight: small fish may be caught with lighter arrows, while larger species require heavier ones for reliable stops.
Accuracy and penetration distance are affected by weight changes. Lighter arrows travel farther but have less stopping power, making them suitable for open water and smaller fish. Heavier arrows maintain better trajectories in short distances but sacrifice some accuracy and carry power.
What materials are bowfishing arrows typically made from?
Bowfishing arrows use durable materials resistant to water damage and environmental factors. Common shaft materials include aluminum, carbon fiber, and hybrid carbon-aluminum constructions. Aluminum shafts provide good value and decent performance, carbon shafts offer lighter weight and increased stiffness, while hybrids balance costs and performance.
Shank materials (the rear portion of the arrow) use stainless steel or tungsten for their corrosion resistance and penetrative capabilities. Broadheads are typically made from stainless steel or tungsten, with specific designs ranging from simple single-blade variants to complex multi-blade setups with replaceable cutting edges.
What is a critical safety consideration when using bowfishing arrows?
Retrieval safety is paramount with bowfishing arrows. Fishermen must use specialized retrieval tools like gaffs, grabbers, or rope systems designed to safely secure barbed arrows without risking injury from the sharp tips. Never attempt to hand-retrieve a barbed arrow, as it could cause serious bodily harm.
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including cut-resistant gloves and protective footwear when handling barbed arrows, even when they appear to be cleared of fish. The barbs are designed to hold in fish, not to allow easy removal.
How do you properly maintain and care for bowfishing arrows?
Regular maintenance extends the life of your bowfishing arrows and ensures safe operation. Immediately remove fish and debris from arrows after each use, as saltwater corrosion and organic matter build-up can damage the hardware and decrease performance. For aluminum and hybrid arrows, a light soap solution followed by thorough water rinsing prevents residue accumulation.
Carbon shafts require regular inspection for cracks or dents before each use. Keep broadheads sharp by periodically resharpening or replacing dull cutting edges. Store arrows in a dry, organized manner to prevent tangling and damage. Use protective arrow bags or cases specifically designed for damp storage environments.
What factors should you consider when choosing the right arrow length?
Arrow length directly affects penetration depth and accuracy in water. Shorter arrows (22-24 inches) are ideal for shallow water and small fish where quick penetration is crucial before the fish can turn and escape. Longer arrows (26-28 inches) provide better depth penetration for larger fish and deeper water applications while maintaining manageable casting distances.
Consider your fishing environment when selecting length: calmer waters and smaller fish populations allow shorter arrows, while stronger currents and deeper habitats require longer shafts. Test different lengths until you find the balance of penetration and casting distance that works best for your specific conditions.
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