Sign up to Block the Ban on Bowfishing/Spearing Red Drum


This petition is in regards to the proposed Louisiana Senate bill No. 573, concerning the removal of bow and arrow, and spear as legal means of taking red drum. Taking of red drum with bow and arrow has been a very heated topic over the last few years. Those who are opposed to bow fishing for red drum have made different claims in an attempt to bring this exciting and challenging sport to a halt.

We, as avid outdoors men, are concerned that these claims are based on emotions and hearsay, and in many cases by individuals with no actual bow fishing experience, or without any factual evidence behind their claims. There has also been no research or science done to back these claims either, and such a ban would only serve special interest groups.

Many Louisiana outdoors men enjoy the sport of bow fishing for red drum, as well as many out of state bow fishermen, who travel to Louisiana exclusively for the opportunity to take red drum with a bow and arrow. The bow fishermen who target red drum, among other species, purchase the same licenses and follow the same rules, regulations, size and possession limits as conventional rod and reel anglers. If we were to lose the bow fishing public, especially the out of state licensee’s the economic impact would be a substantial one.

There has been no research that confirms bow fishing for red drum is adversely affecting the fishery. If proper research does link bow fishing to negative effects on the fishery, we agree that steps should be taken to protect the red drum population. However, regulations should not be put into place simply to serve special interest groups.

We ask you to consider our opinion when making your decision. Please demand that proper research be completed before allowing regulations regarding bow fishing for red drum to be put in place.

Basically, harvesting a red drum, by hook and line, by bow and arrow, or by spear, is just that, harvesting a fish to bring home for supper.

If you live in Louisiana, or bow fish in Louisiana, or ever plan on bow fishing in Louisiana we urge you to sign this petition.

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