Lasers for bow fishing?

[kennylee]

I was wanting to know if you could use a laser sight for bow fishing?

I know it is not allowed for hunting, but is it the same for bow fishing?

People claim that with a laser you don't have to adjust for refraction, due to the laser refracts in water and you shot directly at the fish.

Thanks,
kennylee

[vic n]

Interesting question. Since you are shooting at "non-game" species, the regs banning those sights may not apply. Interesting also to think your aim point will be true without the guesswork on the refraction. If they say it is okay, please let us know how it works

[kennylee]

Found out today, Yes, using a laser sight for bow fishing is legal.

It falls under section 3 CSR 10-6.410(12)"As an aid to fishing methods, an artificial
light may be used only above the water
surface, except that underwater lights may be
used to attract fish while fishing by pole and
line and when bowfishing on impoundments
as authorized by 3 CSR 10-6.550. "

I hope this helps,

Andrew Branson
Fisheries Programs Specialist
Missouri Department of Conservation

Thanks Andrew

[vic n]

Now let us know how you do when you get to try it!!

[MDCAgent663_Clay]

This is a great question and one I lookedinto and got second opinions on. What we all came up with is that in THIS instance,the use of a laser to bowfish is similar to using a boat mounted light above thewater. I do not know if the laser light will actually help because it may ormay not refract the same way an arrow will, but I am curious to hear how itworks out for you! See the code reference below to see where in the WildlifeCode I believe the use of a laser sight for bowfishing is allowable.

3CSR 10-6.410 Fishing Methods
(12) As an aid to fishing methods, anartificial light may be used only above the water surface, except thatunderwater lights may be used to attract fish while fishing by pole and lineand when bowfishing on impoundments as authorized by 3 CSR 10-6.550. [3 CSR 10-6.550 is the “Other Fish” regulations]

Daniel Schepis
Conservation Agent
Clay Co. MO

Thisis only a partial replication of the Wildlife Code of Missouri and is currentas of 07/30/13 @ 12:57pm.