Trophy Alligator Gar Bowfishing Adventures in Texas Waters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Alligator Gar and multiple species in Texas watersBowfishing adventure accommodates up to four guests maximumInshore trips include Buffalo, Tilapia, Carp, and Shad
Ready to experience fishing like you've never done before? Big Fish Bow Fishing Texas is serving up something special with our top-rated Alligator Gar Bowfishing Trophy Package. This isn't your typical rod-and-reel day on the water – we're talking about a hands-on, adrenaline-pumping adventure that puts you face-to-face with some of Texas's most prehistoric predators. You'll be drawing back your bow and taking aim at massive alligator gar, plus plenty of other hard-fighting species that call our waters home. With trips booking up fast and only four spots available per outing, this customer favorite is perfect for small groups looking to try something completely different.
When you step aboard with us, you're signing up for a world-class bowfishing experience that's equal parts skill and excitement. We'll cruise the shallow waters and backwaters where these ancient fish love to hang out, scanning for movement and looking for that perfect shot opportunity. The action typically picks up as the sun starts to drop, when gar and other target species become more active and easier to spot. You'll be standing on our specially rigged boat with a compound bow in hand, waiting for that moment when a trophy-sized alligator gar surfaces within range. Don't worry if you're new to bowfishing – our experienced guides will walk you through proper form, shot placement, and safety protocols before we start hunting. The boat setup gives everyone plenty of room to move around and take their turn, so no one's crowding each other when that big fish shows up.
Bowfishing requires a totally different approach than traditional angling, and we've got all the specialized gear you need for success. Our bows are equipped with heavy-duty reels and braided line that can handle the power of a thrashing alligator gar. The key technique here is learning to aim low – water refraction makes fish appear higher than they actually are, so you'll need to adjust your point of aim accordingly. We use barbed arrows that are designed to penetrate and hold, because once you stick a big gar, the real fight begins. These fish are incredibly strong and will put up a serious battle, often jumping and rolling as they try to shake free. The shallow water environment means you're working in depths of three to eight feet most of the time, giving you clear sight lines to your targets. Night bowfishing is where things really get interesting – we'll light up the water with powerful LED arrays that reveal fish you'd never see during daylight hours. The combination of proper lighting, quality equipment, and our guides' knowledge of fish behavior creates the perfect setup for landing your trophy.
Alligator Gar are the crown jewel of Texas bowfishing, and for good reason. These living dinosaurs can grow over six feet long and weigh upwards of 100 pounds, making them one of the most sought-after trophy species in North America. They're most active during warmer months from late spring through early fall, often surfacing to gulp air in the evening hours. What makes them so special is their prehistoric appearance – covered in diamond-hard scales with a long snout full of needle-sharp teeth. Landing a big alligator gar is like connecting with Texas fishing history, as these fish have been swimming our waters for millions of years virtually unchanged.
Grass Carp offer consistent action and are fantastic for beginners getting their first taste of bowfishing success. These vegetarian giants can push 20-30 pounds and are surprisingly spooky, requiring a quiet approach and quick shot. They're active year-round but really shine during spring and summer when they're cruising shallow areas feeding on aquatic vegetation. The challenge with grass carp is their wariness – they'll disappear at the first sign of trouble, so shot placement and timing are crucial.
Common Carp might not win beauty contests, but they're scrappy fighters that provide plenty of excitement once arrowed. These adaptable fish are available throughout the year and can be found in various depths, making them reliable targets when other species aren't cooperating. They're perfect for practicing your shooting technique since they're less spooky than some other species, and a good-sized common carp will definitely test your gear and fighting skills.
Bigmouth Buffalo are true Texas natives and represent some of the best eating you'll find in freshwater. These hefty fish can exceed 40 pounds and are most active during spring spawning runs when they move into shallow water. They're not as common as other species, which makes landing one feel extra rewarding. Their deep body shape and powerful tail make them strong fighters that will put your bowfishing skills to the test.
Smallmouth Buffalo round out our target list as another native species that offers both challenge and table fare. They're typically smaller than their bigmouth cousins but make up for it with aggressive fighting characteristics. Spring through fall offers the best opportunities, especially when they're feeding in shallow areas during low-light conditions. These fish are becoming increasingly popular with bowfishing enthusiasts who appreciate their sporting qualities and excellent taste.
This renowned bowfishing adventure fills up quickly because word gets around fast when you're offering something this unique. With only four anglers per trip, you're getting personalized attention from our guides and plenty of shooting opportunities without the crowd. The combination of trophy alligator gar, diverse target species, and expert guidance makes this package a standout choice for anyone looking to experience Texas fishing from a completely different angle. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, introducing friends to bowfishing, or just want to try something new, this trip delivers the goods. Our guides know these waters inside and out, and they're passionate about putting you on fish and making sure you have the skills to capitalize when the opportunities arise. Don't wait too long to secure your dates – the best fishing windows book up months in advance, and you don't want to miss your chance at landing a genuine Texas trophy.
Atractosteus SpatulaThese prehistoric monsters are what bowfishing dreams are made of. Running 4-6 feet and 100+ pounds, they're covered in armor-like scales and pack rows of razor teeth. You'll find them in deep river bends near shallow backwaters throughout East Texas. Late summer during hot, dry spells is prime time when they cruise near the surface. What draws folks to target them is their dinosaur looks and the pure adrenaline rush of arrowing something this massive. They can breathe air and water, so they'll surface regularly. The real challenge is getting a clean shot before they disappear. My advice: look for them early morning in calm water near structure. Once you arrow one, the fight's just starting - these things don't quit easy.
Ictiobus BubalusThese stocky bottom dwellers are night bowfishing favorites, earning the nickname "Razor Back" from their sharp dorsal spines. They run 16-24 inches typically, though some push 3 feet. You'll find them in fast streams, lakes, and ponds with heavy vegetation where they feed on algae and decaying matter. They're hardy fish that adapt well to different water conditions. What makes them popular is their firm, tasty meat and the challenge of reading their subtle bites - they mouth bait before committing. Spring spawning season brings them shallow among the weeds. Here's a trick most don't know: try doughballs with hot sauce or chili powder. These fish respond to spicy baits better than most. Watch your rod tip closely since they'll nibble before taking the bait down.
Ictiobus CyprinellusThese surface-feeding giants are perfect bowfishing targets with their upward-facing mouths. They can live over 100 years and reach good size, making them a unique species to chase. You'll spot them in shallow lakes, floodplains, and backwater areas where they filter feed on plankton near the surface. Night fishing is when they really get active, though that's when you might confuse them with carp. What sets them apart is their long dorsal fin without the serrated spine that carp have. Guests enjoy the challenge of arrowing these filter feeders as they cruise the shallows. They're heavy fish, so once hooked, reel slow and steady or risk snapping your line. Look for their copper-gold color reflecting just under the surface.
Cyprinus CarpioDon't underestimate these golden fighters - they'll give you a workout. Running 15-30 inches and 4-30 pounds, they're bottom feeders that love muddy lakes, slow rivers, and pond edges. Fall and spring are money when they school up in shallows to spawn and feed hard. Summer finds them deeper, around 8-12 feet. What guests love is their never-quit attitude - they thrash, run, and wear you down. They're smart too, getting spooked by shiny gear or quick movements. Best fishing happens early morning or late evening when it's cooler. Here's the kicker: use a hair rig to keep hook-shy carp from seeing the business end. Sweet corn's your go-to bait, though bread works great in ponds where they're used to handouts.
Ctenopharyngodon IdellaThese big herbivores can reach 65-80 pounds and are tough fighters that'll test your patience. They're picky eaters in slow-moving waters and backwaters, preferring areas with plenty of vegetation. Originally brought from Asia for weed control, they've spread throughout Texas lakes and rivers. Spring and fall are your best bets when they're feeding aggressively in the shallows. What makes them fun to target is their incredible fight - they'll go airborne when hooked and battle hard to the end. The challenge is getting them to bite since they spook easily. Pro tip: chum with sweet corn first, then use cherry tomatoes or watermelon as bait. Stay still and quiet - any sudden movement will send them running.
Hockley, TX