Ask the Conservation Officer (CO): Bow Fishing

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer, Idaho Department of Fish and Game Question: "I recently saw an outdoor program about bow fishing for carp? What are the rules for shooting fish with a bow and arrow?" Answer: Bow fishing is a great summer-time diversion from target shooting and 3D shoots. It also keeps archery muscles in shape and your eye for judging distance sharp and ready for the fall hunting season. Idaho Fish and Game Commission rules prohibit archery as a method of take for all game fish but nongame fish species such as carp, suckers, and the northern pike minnow (formerly squawfish) are legal quarry for bow fishing with no limits. A valid fishing license is required when bow fishing, however the archery validation, required for big game hunting, is not needed. The bow-fishing season is closed if the season for taking game fish with hook and line is closed. Nongame fish are not required to be salvaged so "waste" is not an issue when discarded. However, all nongame fish taken should be disposed of in a lawful and ethical manner. Large numbers of carp left to rot along beaches and in areas frequented by the public would be prosecuted for littering. Carp, the most commonly bowfished species in Idaho also provide some good eating. At this year's sportsmen's fish fry at the Fish and Game office about 40 pounds of deep-fried carp fillets were scarfed down. Dr. Dick Wallace, one of my well-respected professors at the University of Idaho also used to can a mean pickled carp with onions and spice. Reference IDAPA 13.01.11201.01