Bowfishing for the first time

PONCA, NE (News Channel Nebraska) - In Nebraska, there’s always something to do.

And I learned that quickly when I got the chance to tag along with the Nebraska Bowfishing Mentor Program at Ponca State Park.

“You’ll be learning the art of archery, which is mental and physical, using muscles  you’ve never used before,” says Nebraska Bowfishing mentor  Nick Tramp. “And you’re going to learn to look for fish in the water, if you look close enough, you will find them ,and then if they cooperate then we’ll teach you how to shoot them with and arrow and bring them in and make dinner.”

Before heading out to the river, I had to learn some important skills like how to shoot a bow.

After several attempts, it was finally time.

“About to go bowfishing!”

While some of us lined the edge of the Missouri River, hoping to catch some fish that way, the other half of us went on a boat, to try and see if we were  able to catch fish through a different means.

Equipment in hand, the real game began as we all watched the water, hoping to see any sign of movement.

Whenever one of us would spot any sort of movement, there was no time to waste, but to quickly cast out the bow, aim, and hope that we were lucky enough to catch a fish.

Despite the numerous attempts,  unfortunately none of us walked away a winner.

But, when it comes to bow fishing, there are two things that I learned today.

You definitely have to have a keen eye to spot the fish and second, you have to be patient.