So have you finally decided to go bowfishing in Virginia? If so, then you must be eager to learn more about the best places to head over for a fun and exhilarating bowfishing adventure.
But before we start, you may be wondering – is bowfishing legal in Virginia, anyway? Or are there some restrictions and guidelines you need to know?
Keep reading to learn more about Virginia bowfishing regulations and the best locations to go to, so you can get the best results from this activity.
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Bowfishing Snakehead In Virginia
You have probably heard about bowfishing snakehead in Virginia and how so much fun it is, according to bowfishing enthusiasts.
In this part of the country, there are only specific fish species that you can take legally in public water using archery gear such as the common carp, longnose gar, and Fall-Line, to name a few. Snakehead is also gaining popularity, this is why many people are curious about the best bowfishing Virginia beach locations to go to.
Now, one thing you need to know about bowfishing snakehead is that you are not allowed to catch and release. Hence, you need to comply with the rules to prevent any issues as you engage in this sport.
When bowfishing for snakehead in Virginia, you will be glad to know that there are a lot of these fish as they have become invasive. Thus, by bowfishing, you can protect the local watershed ecosystems while at the same time enjoying the fine taste of your catch.
Virginia Bowfishing Regulations
First of all, let us talk about regulations involving bowfishing in Virginia.
The only tools you are allowed to use are crossbows or bows and arrows. These are what you can use when catching yourself some northern snakehead, gar, grass carp, and carp.
As for restrictions on the time of day you can come, luckily, there is no such thing. You can go at night or day, yet you need to comply with the published limits for certain species. With snakehead, creel limits are not applicable because of the invasive nature of these fish.
However, it is a must that you kill your catch. Moreover, you need to secure a valid Virginia fishing license before you can begin bowfishing.
Bowfishing Virginia Beach
Let us talk about location. Of course, you want to be sure that you are at the right spot to guarantee a good catch.
The best place to go is to bowfish from your jon boat, particularly with a shallow draft since this allows you to get up right in the weeds. There are plenty of snakehead fish here, so you can expect great results.
Additionally, you may want to check out key areas where there’s ample vegetation such as Potomac River, Occoquan River, Pomonkey Creek, Aquia Creek, and Dogue Creek. These are where you want to go to find the most vast population density of these fish.
It is also worth mentioning that refraction makes it difficult to catch your fish because of the way your eyes are able to see things underwater. This is why you may be aiming at the fish only to end up missing it because of refraction. Hence, try to aim a bit lower than normal, and even farther underneath when your target is much deeper.
Read More: What To Do With Carp After Bowfishing? 3 Things You Can Do!
Additional Facts About Bowfishing In Virginia
Now that you know more about the best place to go, some basic techniques, and key regulations, you will have to equip yourself with some tools for bowfishing.
Among the primary tools you need are of course, your boat. Look for a shallow and quiet draft boat that is stable enough, which enables you to stand securely even as you shift your weight. A jon boat is great for this.
Moreover, you need lights to see clearly underwater, a sturdy fishing net, and a reliable bug spray, which is more for your protection as you go snakehead bowfishing at night.
With all these things in mind, you should be all set up for bowfishing snakehead in Virginia and expect success in your endeavor.