Expert Guided Bowfishing at Lake of the Ozarks

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Missouri
$450 - $600 price range
Updated Date: September 26, 2025

Summary

Cruise the waters of Mid Missouri with Capt. Steven on this half-day guided bowfishing trip. You'll be targeting carp, gar, and other species under the cover of darkness. Capt. Steven provides all the gear you need, so just bring some snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray. Whether you're new to bowfishing or an experienced archer, you'll pick up tips to improve your aim. The action starts early, giving you the best shot at landing some impressive catches. If you're after crappie instead, Capt. Steven knows the hotspots on Lake of the Ozarks where the big ones hang out. With room for two guests, it's a perfect outing for you and a buddy. Book your spot to get in on some exciting bow-and-arrow fishing action. Keep in mind that deposits can't be refunded, so choose your date wisely.

Expert Guided Bowfishing at Lake of the Ozarks

Nighttime Bowfishing Shots

Paddlefish: the river’s hidden treasure.

Freshwater giants await.

Snag, reel, repeat. Paddlefish style!

Adventure starts where the paddlefish swim.

Night Bowfishing Adventure in Mid Missouri

Get ready for a wild night on the water with Capt. Steven's half-day bowfishing trip in Mid Missouri. This ain't your grandpa's fishing - we're talking high-powered lights, specialized bows, and the thrill of the hunt as we target invasive carp, prehistoric-looking gar, and more. Whether you're a seasoned bowfisher or looking to try something new, this trip promises action-packed fun under the stars. Let's dive into what makes this experience one you won't forget.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're gliding across calm Missouri waters in the dark, powerful lights illuminating the shallows. Suddenly, a flash of scales catches your eye - it's go time! You draw your bow, take aim, and let that arrow fly. That's the heart-pounding excitement waiting for you on this trip. Capt. Steven's years of experience mean you'll be hitting prime spots where the big ones lurk. No need to worry about gear - he's got you covered with top-notch bows, arrows, and all the fixings. Just bring some grub, slap on some sunscreen, and don't forget the bug spray. We'll be out for about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to get your bowfishing fix.

Bowfishing 101

Never tried bowfishing before? No sweat! It's like archery meets fishing, with a dash of hunting thrown in for good measure. We use specialized bows equipped with reels and heavy-duty line attached to barbed arrows. The trick is to aim low - water refraction means the fish aren't quite where they appear. Capt. Steven will give you the rundown and have you shooting like a pro in no time. We'll be targeting shallow areas where carp and gar come up to feed at night. It's a unique way to fish that's gaining popularity fast, and for good reason - it's addictively fun!

Target Species Breakdown

Common Carp: These guys are the bread and butter of bowfishing. Invasive and plentiful, carp can grow to monster sizes. They love to root around in the shallows, stirring up mud and making themselves perfect targets. Landing a big one is like reeling in a submarine - they fight hard and can weigh 30 pounds or more!

Longnose Gar: Talk about prehistoric! Gar look like they swam straight out of the dinosaur age with their long, toothy snouts. They're ambush predators that often hang motionless near the surface, making them prime bowfishing targets. Hitting one of these armor-plated beasts is a real rush.

Freshwater Drum: Also known as "sheepshead," these silvery fish can grow to impressive sizes. They've got a distinctive grunt that gives them their name. While not as common a target as carp, landing a big drum with a bow is definitely something to brag about.

Shad: These smaller fish might not be the main event, but they're fun to target when you want to work on your accuracy. They move in schools, so when you spot one, there's usually more nearby. It's like shooting fish in a... well, you know.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about bowfishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the primal thrill of the hunt, or the challenge of nailing a moving target in the dark. Or it could be the satisfaction of helping control invasive species while having a blast. Whatever it is, one trip is rarely enough. Capt. Steven's knack for putting clients on fish means you're in for some serious action. Plus, with the stunning Missouri landscape as your backdrop, even a "slow" night is a treat for the senses.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to notch your bow and join the night crew? Capt. Steven's half-day morning bowfishing trips are booking up fast. With room for just two guests, you're guaranteed a personalized experience tailored to your skill level. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or try bowfishing for the first time, this trip delivers the goods. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so when you're ready to commit, you're all in for an unforgettable adventure. Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers like a wily carp - book your spot today and get ready for a bowfishing experience that'll have you hooked!

Learn more about the animals

Common Carp

Common Carp are a staple for bowfishing in Mid Missouri. These golden-yellow fish are chunky, typically 15-30 inches long and 4-30 pounds. You'll find them in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds, often in murky water. They're bottom feeders, so look for them in 8-12 feet of water during summer. Spring and fall are prime times when they come to the shallows to feed aggressively. Carp are known for their strength - they'll give you a real workout when hooked. What's cool about targeting carp is their size potential - 20-pounders aren't uncommon, and some grow over 40 inches. They spook easily, so stealth is key. A local trick: scout for bubbles or muddy patches in clear water - that's often carp rooting around for food. Remember, carp have great eyesight, so use camouflage and avoid shiny gear to improve your chances.

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum are an interesting target for bowfishing. These silver-scaled fish typically range from 10-14 inches but can grow much larger. They're bottom feeders, so look for them in clear, shallow waters with some vegetation. Drums are most active in summer, but you can find them year-round. What makes them fun is their grunting sound - that's how they got nicknames like "thunder pumper" and "bubbler." They're not known for putting up a big fight, but their abundance makes for steady action. To increase your chances, focus on areas with snails and small clams - that's their favorite food. One tip: use natural baits like crayfish tails or night crawlers if you're rod fishing. For bowfishing, aim slightly below where you see them due to light refraction in the water. While not a prized food fish, some anglers keep the "lucky stones" in their heads as good luck charms.

Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar are a favorite for bowfishing enthusiasts. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow up to 6 feet long, though 2-4 feet is more common. You'll spot them in freshwater - streams, lakes, and backwaters. They love hanging out in vegetation, especially at night when they're most active. What makes gar exciting is their ambush hunting style and their fight when hooked. They're opportunistic feeders, so they'll go after a variety of baits. Spring and summer are prime seasons for gar. When bowfishing, aim for the front half of the body - their tough, armored scales can deflect arrows. A local tip: look for gar "rolling" at the surface, especially on calm evenings. That's when they're coming up for air, making them easier targets. While not great eating due to their tough skin and eggs (which are toxic), gar offer a unique challenge that keeps anglers coming back for more.

Shad

Shad might seem small, but they're a blast for bowfishing. These silver fish with dark shoulder spots usually run 20-24 inches, sometimes hitting 30 inches and 12 pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters and rivers, often swimming in schools. Spring and early summer are prime times as they move upstream to spawn. What's cool about shad is their taste - they're considered a delicacy, especially the roe. When bowfishing, focus on areas with strong currents, about 30 feet from the bank. Shad use these spots to rest as they move upstream. They're not the fastest swimmers, which makes them good targets for beginners. A tip for success: look for "flipping" on the water surface - that's often shad trying to escape predators. While they're mostly ocean fish, you can find them deep in river systems during warmer months. It's a unique way to target a fish that's usually caught with rod and reel.

About the Toruk "Last Shadow"

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Cruise the waters of Mid Missouri with Captain Steven on an exciting bowfishing adventure. As you glide through the darkness, you'll have the chance to target carp, gar, and other species using specialized archery equipment. Whether you're an experienced bowfisher or trying it for the first time, the captain's knowledge ensures everyone has a great time. All the necessary gear is provided - just remember to pack some snacks, sun protection, and bug spray. For those interested in traditional angling, Captain Steven also offers top-notch crappie fishing trips on Lake of the Ozarks. With his insider tips, you might even hook the lake's biggest catch. This half-day morning trip accommodates up to two guests, perfect for a unique outing with a friend or family member. Book your spot now for a memorable time on the water, but keep in mind that deposits can't be refunded.

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