Premier Ohio River Bowfishing for Carp & Gar

Published Date: September 16, 2025
Fishing

Southern Ohio
$500 - $600 price range

Summary

Looking for a solid weekend fishing trip in Ohio? We've got you covered with our 4-hour bowfishing charter on local rivers. We target Grass Carp, Asian Carp, Common Carp, and Gar – all popular freshwater species that'll keep you busy. Whether you're new to bowfishing or have some experience, our guides know the spots and will help you dial in your technique. We provide all the gear you need, so just show up ready to have some fun on the water. Safety's a top priority, and we'll make sure you're comfortable before we start. With a max of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and shots at fish. It's a great way to spend a few hours outdoors, learn some new skills, and hopefully land a few good-sized fish. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before booking.

Premier Ohio River Bowfishing for Carp & Gar

Arrows and Scales

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Bowfishing carp and gar in Ohio lakes

Night fishing carp action in Ohio

Buckeye Bowfishing carp catch in Ohio

Weekend Carp & Gar Fishing in Ohio's Rivers

Get ready to notch your bow and reel in some monster carp on Ohio's scenic waterways. This 4-hour guided bowfishing trip is perfect for newbies and sharpshooters alike. We'll be targeting those big, ugly carp and prehistoric-looking gar that cruise our local rivers. It's a hands-on experience where you'll learn the ropes (or should I say bowstrings) from seasoned local guides who know every bend and eddy. Grab your buddies – we can take up to 4 anglers per trip – and get set for some non-stop action on the water.

What's the Deal with This Trip?

Look, I'm not gonna sugarcoat it – bowfishing for carp isn't your typical relaxing day on the water. It's fast-paced, it's messy, and it's a total blast. We'll cruise the shallows in our specialized bowfishing boat, keeping our eyes peeled for those telltale swirls and shadows. When we spot a fish, it's go time. You'll draw your bow, take aim, and let that arrow fly. Hit or miss, you'll get plenty of chances to perfect your technique. We provide all the gear you need, from bows and arrows to polarized glasses that help you spot fish. Safety's our top priority, so we'll run through all the do's and don'ts before we launch. Fair warning: this isn't catch-and-release. We're doing our part to control invasive species, so be prepared to get your hands dirty.

Bowfishing 101

If you've never tried bowfishing before, don't sweat it. It's not rocket science, but it does take some getting used to. We use specialized recurve bows that are easy to handle, even for first-timers. The arrows are attached to heavy-duty line, so you can reel in your catch after you shoot. Here's the tricky part – water refraction means you need to aim low to hit your target. We'll teach you the "Quick Draw McGraw" technique to snap off shots quickly as fish dart by. As for terrain, we'll be working the shallow, muddy backwaters where carp love to hang out. Expect to cover a good stretch of river as we hunt for honey holes. By the end of the trip, you'll be slinging arrows like a pro – or at least having a heck of a good time trying.

Fish We're After

Grass Carp: These veggie-munching machines can grow over 4 feet long and top 80 pounds. They're not native to Ohio, which is why we target them. Grass carp are crafty and spook easily, so stealth is key. When you connect with one of these bruisers, hold on tight – they fight like crazy.

Common Carp: The OG carp of Ohio rivers. These golden-bronze fish average 5-15 pounds but can get much bigger. They love rooting around in the mud, which makes the water murky – perfect for sneaking up on them. Common carp put up a great fight and are plentiful, so you're almost guaranteed some action.

Goldfish: Yep, you read that right. We're not talking about your kid's pet – these are their feral cousins that have invaded our waterways. They can grow to surprising sizes and add a pop of color to your day. It's always a hoot when someone lands their first "monster" goldfish.

Bigmouth Buffalo: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't actually carp, but they look similar and hang in the same spots. Bigmouth buffalo are native to Ohio and can live for decades. They're known for their distinctive sucker-like mouth and can weigh up to 40 pounds or more.

Smallmouth Buffalo: Cousins to the bigmouth, these fish are a bit more streamlined and usually top out around 20 pounds. They're quick swimmers and can give you a run for your money when you're trying to line up a shot.

Why Bowfishers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, once you've felt the rush of nailing a big carp with a well-placed arrow, you'll be hooked. It's not just about the fish – it's about the whole experience. You're out there on the water with your buddies, cracking jokes and talking smack as you try to outdo each other. There's something primal about hunting fish with a bow that just gets your blood pumping. Plus, you're doing your part to help control invasive species and protect Ohio's native aquatic ecosystems. It's a win-win in my book.

Book Your Bowfishing Adventure

Alright, folks – if you're ready to try your hand at one of the most unique fishing experiences Ohio has to offer, it's time to lock in your spot. Remember, we can only take 4 anglers per trip, so don't wait too long to book. Weekends fill up fast, especially during peak summer months. Bring your A-game, a good attitude, and maybe a change of clothes (trust me on this one). We'll provide everything else you need for a killer day on the water. Just a heads up – that deposit is non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. See you on the river!

Learn more about the animals

Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo are often mistaken for carp, but they're a whole different ball game. These filter-feeders can live over 100 years and grow up to 40-50 inches long. Look for them in floodplains, shallow lakes, and backwater areas of large rivers. They're most active at night, especially in warmer months. Anglers prize them for their size and the challenge - they're not easy to hook. Use heavily scented bait or small nymphs to attract them. A word to the wise: they're strong fighters, so once you've got one on the line, reel slowly to avoid snapping your gear. Bowfishing's popular for these surface-swimmers, but if you're using a rod, patience is key. Wait for a solid tug before setting the hook. These fish aren't just fun to catch; they're also great for the ecosystem, helping to keep our waters clean.

Common Carp

Common Carp are tough, stocky fish that'll test your skills. They average 15-30 inches but can grow much bigger. You'll find 'em in lakes, slow rivers, and ponds, often hanging out near the bottom in 8-12 feet of water. Spring and fall are your best bets when they're feeding aggressively in the shallows. Carp fishing's popular 'cause these fish fight hard and don't tire easily. They're not picky eaters, but they can be hook-shy. Try using a hair rig with corn or boilies as bait. A 9-foot rod with 7-8 weight line is good for most carp. Here's a local tip: fish during the warmest part of the day in colder months, but stick to dawn and dusk in summer. Watch for bubbles or stirred-up mud - that's often a sign carp are feeding nearby.

Goldfish

Goldfish in the wild aren't your typical pet store variety. They can grow up to 12 inches long in open waters. You'll find them in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and areas with lots of vegetation. These orange beauties are most active in warmer months, especially spring when they're spawning. Anglers go after them for the novelty - it's not every day you catch a 'giant' goldfish. They're not the smartest fish, so they're great for beginners or anyone looking for steady action. Use light tackle and small hooks baited with bread or corn. A local trick: toss in some bread crumbs to bring them to the surface, then cast your line. Remember, these fish are gluttons, so don't overfeed the area. While they're not known for putting up a big fight, the bright flash of gold in the water is always a thrill.

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are hefty freshwater fish, often hitting 65-80 pounds. They're plant-eaters, munching on aquatic weeds in lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. These silver-scaled giants can be a real challenge to catch, known for their power and size. Spring and fall are prime times, when they're actively feeding in shallower waters. Anglers love 'em for the fight they put up - they'll go airborne and give you a run for your money. To land one, try chumming with sweet corn or cherry tomatoes. Patience is key - they spook easy, so keep movements minimal. Use a medium-sized rod with a sensitive tip to feel those subtle bites. When you hook one, be ready for a battle. These fish aren't just fun to catch; they're also helping control invasive plants in many waterways.

Smallmouth Buffalo

Smallmouth Buffalo are stocky fish, typically 16-24 inches long, but can grow much bigger. You'll find them in fast-moving streams, lakes, and ponds with plenty of vegetation. They're bottom feeders, so look for them in areas with lots of plant life. Spring's your best bet for catching these guys when they're spawning. Anglers love 'em for their firm, tasty meat and the fight they put up. Here's a quirky local tip: try baits with a kick, like dough balls mixed with chili powder. When you're fishing for them, patience is key. They like to nibble before committing, so watch your rod tip for subtle movements. Set the hook when you feel a strong pull. Night bowfishing's popular for Smallmouth Buffalo, but rod and reel works well too. Just remember, they can be hook-shy, so finesse is the name of the game.

About the Buckeye Bowfishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 10

Manufacturer Name: Pro Drive Surface Drives

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 40

Ready for some weekend bowfishing action? Grab your friends and join us on Ohio's scenic rivers for a 4-hour adventure targeting Grass Carp, Asian Carp, Common Carp, and Gar. Whether you're new to bowfishing or a seasoned pro, our local guides will help you hone your skills and improve your aim. We provide all the gear you need, so just bring yourself and your enthusiasm. Safety is our top priority, and we'll make sure you're comfortable before letting those arrows fly. With plenty of fish to target, you'll have consistent opportunities to test your marksmanship throughout the trip. It's a great way to spend a weekend outdoors, enjoying Ohio's natural beauty while experiencing the unique challenge of bowfishing. Remember, our trips are designed to offer steady action from start to finish, so you can count on an engaging outing. Book your spot now, but keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable. See you on the water!

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