The partners even created a mock bowfishing setup to simulate bowfishing scenarios. The setup includes a 3-foot platform overlooking a 600-gallon cattle tank. Inside the tank are 3D-fish targets hooked to a motor that keeps the targets “swimming.” Gill said the attraction lures archers to their booth and generates excitement.
Gill and his team also partner with AMS Bowfishing to run events. The company provides equipment and sends representatives to work with newcomers. So far, they’ve introduced over 3,000 people to bowfishing.
“They’ve been amazing at using the curriculum, pushing [bowfishing education], growing the sport, and getting the word out about bowfishing,” Schroeder said. “This goes way beyond a partnership.”
Gill and his team hope to expand their efforts by working with school districts and other groups.
Likewise, the DNR will host another Explore Bowfishing workshop before fall. The agency will also track participants in Explore Bowfishing activities to see if they buy a fishing license. Schroeder said this research should determine if Explore Bowfishing generates more license-buyers.
“Explore Bowfishing is another avenue or pathway to introduce people and families to the outdoors, and get them to use archery gear,” Schroeder said. “I encourage other states to find partner groups to help run the Explore Bowfishing activities and programs. It’s less stress and time on agency staff, and it helps boost R3 efforts.”
To learn more about Explore Bowfishing, contact Josh Gold, ATA’s senior manager of R3 and state relations, at joshgold@archerytrade.org, or (866) 266-2776, ext. 107.