Bow Fishing

Welcome to Jones Sport Fishing, your premier destination for outdoor adventures in Southern Idaho! If you’re an angler looking to add a new twist to your fishing experience, bow fishing for carp in the picturesque waters of CJ Strike Reservoir and the legendary Snake River is an exhilarating activity to try. Whether you’re a seasoned bow fishing enthusiast or a beginner looking for something new, our tailored guides and expert tips will ensure you have a successful and unforgettable time.


Why Bow Fishing for Carp?

Bow fishing is an exciting and rewarding way to catch carp, a species that is abundant in Southern Idaho’s waters. Carp can be a challenge to catch with traditional rods and reels, but bow fishing offers a unique and hands-on approach. Not only does it provide a thrilling challenge, but it’s also an excellent way to help manage the carp population in areas like CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River, where they can have a negative impact on local ecosystems.


Best Locations for Bow Fishing in Southern Idaho

CJ Strike Reservoir

CJ Strike Reservoir, located about 40 miles south of Mountain Home, is a hotspot for bow fishing enthusiasts. This expansive reservoir features a diverse range of aquatic habitats, from shallow flats to deeper channels, making it ideal for targeting carp. The clear, warm waters offer great visibility, making it easier to spot carp near the surface, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. With its blend of shallow coves and dense weed beds, CJ Strike is a top choice for bow fishing in Southern Idaho.

The Snake River

The Snake River, one of the longest rivers in the Pacific Northwest, offers some of the best bow fishing opportunities in the region. The river stretches for hundreds of miles through Southern Idaho, providing anglers with access to carp in various water conditions. From the calm, slow-moving stretches near the town of Twin Falls to the faster currents downstream, the Snake River has the perfect conditions for a thrilling bow fishing adventure. Popular areas include the canyon sections and wide river bends, where carp like to congregate.


Night Shooting for Carp

Night fishing for carp in Southern Idaho is an experience unlike any other. As the sun sets, carp become more active, often feeding in the shallows or along submerged structures. Night fishing offers the advantage of cooler temperatures and reduced boat traffic, making for a peaceful and productive outing. The clear waters of CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River allow for excellent visibility under artificial lighting, which is essential for bow fishing at night.

Night Shooting Tips:

  • Lights: Use bright, high-quality LED lights on your boat to illuminate the water’s surface and attract carp. A headlamp can also be useful for spotting carp from your boat.
  • Timing: Carp are often more active during the nighttime hours, particularly around the full moon. Plan your trips around these times for the best chances of success.
  • Safety: Always fish with a buddy at night and be aware of your surroundings, especially in low-light conditions.

Day Shooting for Carp

Day fishing provides a different but equally exciting challenge. During the daytime, carp can be spotted near the shallows, in coves, or around submerged vegetation, where they graze on plants and algae. This is the perfect time to use your bow to take a well-aimed shot, especially when carp are concentrated in certain areas.

Day Fishing Tips:

  • Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to fish during the day when carp are feeding closer to the surface.
  • Spotting Carp: Keep your eyes peeled for their signature dark shadows, especially in clearer, shallow waters. The bright daylight makes it easier to spot these fish near the surface or along the bottom.
  • Shooting: Practice shooting from a variety of angles and distances. Carp can sometimes be skittish, so precision is key.
  • Tackle: In addition to your bow and arrows, having a good retrieval system can help if you miss or if you need to retrieve arrows from deeper water.

Jones Sport Fishing Carp Boat

What’s Included

To make your bow fishing experience enjoyable and successful, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s a list of the must-have gear for bow fishing in Southern Idaho:

  • Bows
  • Arrows
  • Boat
  • Lights
  • Bottled Water

Why Choose Jones Sport Fishing?

At Jones Sport Fishing, we’re committed to providing you with the best bow fishing experience in Southern Idaho. Whether you’re targeting carp in CJ Strike Reservoir or the Snake River, we offer expert knowledge and local insights that ensure you’re fishing in the best spots at the best times. Our guides are familiar with the waters of Southern Idaho and can provide tips and techniques that will increase your chances of success.


Book Your Bow Fishing Adventure Today!

Ready to embark on your bow fishing journey? Book a trip with Jones Sport Fishing today! Whether you prefer day fishing or want to experience the excitement of night fishing, we offer guided trips tailored to your skill level. We supply all the necessary gear, or you can bring your own – whatever works best for you!

Contact Us

For more information about bow fishing in Southern Idaho or to schedule your guided trip, give us a call at (208) 669-1569. We look forward to helping you make the most of your bow fishing adventure!


Experience the Thrill of Bow Fishing in Idaho – Only with Jones Sport Fishing!