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Bowfishing in Kentucky: Where Archery Meets Adventure

If you haven’t tried bowfishing in Kentucky, you’re missing one of the wildest rides you can have on the water. Our lakes and rivers turn electric when the sun goes down—boats light up the shallows, and the hunt is on. Whether you’re after big carp, stubborn gar, or one of those prehistoric-looking buffalo, you’ll find plenty of targets swimming just below the surface.

Bowfishing here isn’t just about the shot—it’s the whole experience. Warm summer nights, the buzz of the boat, friends laughing between shots, and the rush when you finally stick a big one. From the Ohio River to Barkley and all the smaller lakes in between, Kentucky has earned its spot as a top bowfishing destination.

With abundant rough fish species like carp, gar, buffalo, and drum, the state’s waters provide action-packed nights and unforgettable experiences.  So grab your bow, round up your crew, and see what’s swimming out there. Kentucky bowfishing is about making memories and stories you’ll be telling for years.

 

Bowfishing is one of the most exciting outdoor sports in Kentucky—and it’s not hard to see why. With a combination of hunting and fishing, it offers a fast-paced experience on some of the state’s most scenic waterways. 

If you’re looking to combine the thrill of bowhunting with the fast-paced excitement of fishing, bowfishing in Kentucky is the ultimate experience. Whether you’re cruising shallow lakes at sunset or scanning the banks of a river under glowing lights, Kentucky offers some of the best bowfishing waters in the country.

In Kentucky, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to bowfish both from shore and by boat—with each method offering different advantages and challenges. This post breaks down the pros and cons of bowfishing from shore versus boat so you can choose what works best for you.

 Kentucky offers some incredible opportunities to go after invasive and rough fish species with a bow in hand. Whether you’re scouting a quiet cove on Lake Cumberland or gliding along the edges of Kentucky Lake, you’ll find plenty of action beneath the surface.