That�s a very well-written article Chad. Looks like you have done quite a bit of research on the topic.

Maybe you can help me understand why �methods� is under fire instead of size restrictions? If TPWD has stated there�s no resource issue, what difference does it make if a fish is harvested with bow and arrow vs. a hook? Can we not just protect the big fish, and encourage all angling methods?

Because morality and ethics is a slippery slope in recreational hobbies. I am a bow hunter, and see striking similarities to controversial issues the hunting community has worked through in recent years. Deer archers could argue that rifles pose ethical and moral issues because of the perceived �unfair advantage� in killing an animal. But a deer killed is a deer killed and the same goes for a fish. There was tremendous pushback against crossbows in the hunting community, citing many concerns that never came to fruition, and instead has brought more kids and women into hunting. Same argument was made for air rifles, but it will almost certainly go the same way as crossbow, a win-win for hunting.

I agree that protecting bigger fish is a good thing. But if shooting fish with archery tackle as has been done for thousands of years is now considered barbaric, then we ought to outlaw all Bowfishing. And chumming, sonar, etc. anything that gives sportsmen an unfair advantage over their quarry.

I�ll probably get flamed by some for this, but there seems to be some major inconsistencies when this topic is viewed in light of the greater context of state-driven game management for other animals. The underlying rub is that hunting and fishing is now a sport for most, instead of a way to get food. So now we (the hunting and fishing community) judge one another based upon how the fish was caught, deer was killed etc. but that�s a whole separate discussion.

But again, interesting article, and appreciate you sharing, Chad.

Texas is in the stone-age compared to several states when it comes to state laws that conserve and develop trophy catfish. Here is one more step in the wrong in the wrong direction. Great article.

We got bow hunting in Arkansas their crazy over it...Big boats, big lights,big guides, big money...and piles of fish floating around and piled at the boat ramps full of holes from bow and arrow hunting just to prove you can hit a fish?? The corps closed an area right by the dam cause they were shooting fish ( legal) with a bow and piling them all over the bank for all to enjoy......We were always taught eat what ya kill ....... it will just put more pressure on the species.....there is no catch and release W/O harm when shot with a bow and arrow....

Just my opinion on it, which I know I'm the only one who cares about my opinion.

Spinfly, you seem to be assuming that the bowfishermen are going to be targeting the smaller fish. Maybe these will convince you otherwise:

Just as you said, it's sight "fishing." They selectively target the giants as they're more impressive, destroying the fishery. Carp and gar fishermen know this more than anyone. The state is about to make huge changes concerning gar because their numbers are dwindling.

Maybe you can help me understand why �methods� is under fire instead of size restrictions? If TPWD has stated there�s no resource issue, what difference does it make if a fish is harvested with bow and arrow vs. a hook? Can we not just protect the big fish, and encourage all angling methods?

I agree that protecting bigger fish is a good thing.

TPWD is not changing restrictions on fish protecting the bigger ones, they aren't even involved in this particular bill. The only thing that could potentially change is the ability to bowfish for catfish, size and bag limits will not be changed.