Well, here is the deal - I want to smack some of the Carp in our local lake. I have an Excalibur, Vortex crossbow. How do I set it up for fishing? Where are the sources for product needed? With the power of 200 lbs. and the arrow going out at 315 fps, I don't want to follow the arrow out of the boat lol....

Pictures of anyone's set up would be greatly appreciated.

My brother uses an Xbow when we go, its awesome for slaying carp and buffalo. I dont have any pics but..... You will need to get an extra heavy bolt as the shorter length will cut weight and hense penatration in water. He cuts down fiberglass arrows. Even with a lot of energy you need the momentum to penitrate water with the extra heavy arrow. I dont know that much about crossbows, but he uses a normal bowfishing reel and head. The line has to be extra heavy (at least 200 lb but dont quote me on that) or you will snap it at the shot with that power. The only drawback is a Xbow is a little slower (maybe 5-10 seconds) on second shots than a normal bow for fishing from what I have seen. It also seems the lighter bolt deflects from hitting the water somewhat more, causing more misses in those 2-3 foot deep shots.

read this thread. Theres some good info.

If you contact these guys they can set you up with everything you need. They are very helpful. They have good prices too. If you want a good setup be willing to spend some money. http://backwaterbowfishing.com/

bowfisherman - Great site - Thanks. Do you have any pictures of your gear set up for fishing? Would love to have a look.

Bowfisherman - what thread?

oh sorry. Heres the thread but it looks like you are the one that started it.http://hunting.net/forum/tm.aspx?m=2531625

I don't use my crossbow for bowfishing. I could take a pic of my regular bow setup if that would help at all. Just let me know.

heres an ams retriever mount for crossbows. If you go with an ams retriever you won't need the float in the picture for carp. Unless your planning on shooting sharks, rays, ect you don't need the slotted reel. The standard would be fine. Go with 200 or 400 lb line. The 130 lb is real thin and doesn't grab as well in the wheels on the reel. I like the yellow muzzy 200 lb for carp. http://www.amsbowfishing.com/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=241

Wow, that set up looks cool. When I get the CB set all up, I'll post a picture.