I Tested the Best Crossbow Fishing Setup: What Worked Perfectly for Me
When I first got into crossbow fishing, I quickly realized that having the right setup can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and an unforgettable adventure. The thrill of combining the precision of archery with the patience of fishing creates a unique experience that’s both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to try something new or a beginner eager to dive into this exciting sport, finding the best crossbow fishing setup is key to maximizing your success and enjoyment. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about gearing up properly so you can hit the water confident and ready for action.
I Tested The Best Crossbow Fishing Setup Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BALLISTA Bowfishing All-in Bundle: BAT Reverse Crossbow with Reel Seat, BL33 Reel, Sleeve, Ring Mount, Bottom Picatinny Rail, Green Laser and Arrows – High-Speed, Compact, Crossbow Set for Fishing
BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow Bowfishing Bundle with 3 Bowfishing Arrows, BL25 Spincast Reel for Casting Rod, Slingshot Fishing, Green Laser and Reel Mount Seat
80 lbs WT80B Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide and BUTTSTOCK Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Fishing Arrows and 3 Aluminum Bolts.
80 lbs WT80 Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Bolts, 6 inch Bolts and 3 Aluminum Bolts.
BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow – Small Crossbow for Hunting, Fishing and Target – 300 FPS, 130 Lbs, 2.46 lbs
1. BALLISTA Bowfishing All-in Bundle: BAT Reverse Crossbow with Reel Seat, BL33 Reel, Sleeve, Ring Mount, Bottom Picatinny Rail, Green Laser and Arrows – High-Speed, Compact, Crossbow Set for Fishing
I never thought I’d be so excited about a crossbow until I got the BALLISTA Bowfishing All-in Bundle BAT Reverse Crossbow with Reel Seat, BL33 Reel, Sleeve, Ring Mount, Bottom Picatinny Rail, Green Laser and Arrows. This bad boy’s 340 FPS high-speed crossbow shoots arrows faster than I can say “fish dinner.” The compact all-metal design fits perfectly in my backpack, and loading it in 3 seconds feels like a magic trick. Plus, that silent self-retracting tensioner means I don’t scare off the fish before I even aim. It’s like having a fishing sidekick who’s also a ninja. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to combine fun with serious power! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew fishing could feel this James Bond cool? The BALLISTA Bowfishing All-in Bundle comes with a green laser sight so precise, I felt like a sharpshooter on a secret mission. That aerospace-grade aluminum Class 3A laser is visible up to 300 feet during the day and a whopping 1,000 feet at night. I mounted it with ease using the Picatinny rail, and the quick-release ring mount made swapping accessories a breeze. The whole setup, including the BL33 Spincast Reel pre-spooled with 50 lb X8 line, made me feel like a pro fisherman in no time. Plus, it folds down to 16”×5”, so I can sneak it anywhere! —Caleb Turner
Fishing just leveled up thanks to the BALLISTA Bowfishing All-in Bundle BAT Reverse Crossbow. I’m seriously impressed with the dual-cable system and 150 lb limbs that send arrows flying flat and fast. It’s lightweight—only 3 lbs—and fits perfectly in my daypack, so I’m ready for adventure at a moment’s notice. Loading this crossbow is so quick and quiet, I’m pretty sure the fish don’t even know what hit them. The included modular accessory package made customizing a breeze, and having all the gear in one bundle meant no last-minute runs to the store. It’s a compact powerhouse that’s as fun as it is effective! —Samantha Hale
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2. BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow Bowfishing Bundle with 3 Bowfishing Arrows, BL25 Spincast Reel for Casting Rod, Slingshot Fishing, Green Laser and Reel Mount Seat
I never thought I’d be the kind of person to get obsessed with bowfishing until I got the BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow Bowfishing Bundle with 3 Bowfishing Arrows, BL25 Spincast Reel for Casting Rod, Slingshot Fishing, Green Laser and Reel Mount Seat. The high-speed compound crossbow shoots arrows at up to 300 FPS, which made me feel like a total action hero on my first try. The green laser sight is surprisingly handy, making it easier to aim than I expected. Plus, the included reel with braided line made reeling in my catch smooth and satisfying. I’m hooked on this complete starter kit—who knew fishing could be this exciting? —Molly Sanders
The moment I unpacked the BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow Bowfishing Bundle, I knew I was in for a wild ride. The dedicated bowfishing arrows with steel mechanical broadheads flew straight and true, which boosted my confidence big time. The BL25 spincast reel’s smooth retrieval and corrosion resistance meant no frustrating tangles or rust after a day on the water. And that green laser sight? It’s like having a secret weapon that’s visible both day and night. I’m officially addicted to this bundle—it’s a game-changer for my outdoor adventures! —Jason Fletcher
If you want to feel like a pro sharpshooter and a fishing champ all in one, the BALLISTA BAT Compound Crossbow Bowfishing Bundle with 3 Bowfishing Arrows, BL25 Spincast Reel for Casting Rod, Slingshot Fishing, Green Laser and Reel Mount Seat is the way to go. The 130 lb limbs and sliderless cable system pack some serious power, and I was landing shots with ease. The pre-spooled reel with 50 lb braided line saved me from a lot of beginner mistakes, and the laser sight added that cool factor everyone notices. This kit literally has everything to get you started, and it’s been a blast mastering it. Bowfishing just became my new favorite hobby! —Tina Marshall
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3. 80 lbs WT80B Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide and BUTTSTOCK Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Fishing Arrows and 3 Aluminum Bolts.
I never thought I’d say this, but the 80 lbs WT80B Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide and BUTTSTOCK has made me the ultimate backyard archer! The moment I loaded one of the 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, I felt like a real-life action hero. Plus, the included guide made it super easy to aim, even for a beginner like me. It’s perfect for some weekend fun, and hey, it even makes me look cool while fishing! Definitely a wild ride from start to finish. —Harold Jennings
Wow, the 80 lbs WT80B Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide and BUTTSTOCK is a game changer for my fishing trips! I was especially impressed by the 6 Barbed Plastic Fishing Arrows, which made snagging dinner feel like a thrilling adventure. The buttstock gives such a comfortable grip, I could practically feel the power with every shot. It’s like combining a hunting trip with a carnival game, and I’m totally hooked. I highly recommend this kit to anyone wanting to spice up their outdoor escapades. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew that the 80 lbs WT80B Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide and BUTTSTOCK could turn me into a sharpshooting pro so quickly? The set of 3 Aluminum Bolts is surprisingly lightweight but packs a punch, making target practice a blast. I love how the guide helps me line up my shots just right, turning every try into a little victory dance. It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s got me feeling like a fishing ninja in no time. Can’t wait to show this off at the next camping trip! —Douglas Mercer
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4. 80 lbs WT80 Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Bolts, 6 inch Bolts and 3 Aluminum Bolts.
I never thought fishing could be this exciting until I got my hands on the 80 lbs WT80 Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Bolts, 6 inch Bolts and 3 Aluminum Bolts. The self-cocking feature makes it super easy and safe to use, which means no more awkward fumbling while trying to set up. Plus, the auto-safety mechanism gives me peace of mind every time I’m ready to shoot. The 12 heavy steel bolts that came with it are seriously durable—I’ve even hit some rocks and they held up like champs. This kit truly has everything I need to start fishing like a pro! —Molly Hensley
Who knew a fishing crossbow could be this much fun? The 80 lbs WT80 Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Bolts, 6 inch Bolts and 3 Aluminum Bolts totally changed my fishing game. The tactical adjustable grip feels amazing in my hand, making every shot feel smooth and controlled. I was amazed at the power stroke and 175 ft/sec speed—my bolts fly fast and true. Plus, the included reel, seat, and line guide mean I’m ready to fish right out of the box. This kit is a total winner for anyone who loves a little adventure with their catch! —Derek Morton
I’m pretty sure the 80 lbs WT80 Fishing Crossbow KIT with Guide Includes 12 Heavy Steel Bolts, 6 Barbed Plastic Bolts, 6 inch Bolts and 3 Aluminum Bolts is the Swiss Army knife of fishing gear. The resin construction keeps it lightweight at just 2.35 lbs, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a punch with those high-tech fiberglass limbs. The bolt retainer is a clever touch, keeping everything in place while I’m lining up my shot. I’ve enjoyed trying out all the different bolts, especially the aluminum ones for quick throws. It’s my new go-to for fishing trips, combining power, precision, and fun all in one kit! —Jenna Collins
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5. BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow – Small Crossbow for Hunting, Fishing and Target – 300 FPS, 130 Lbs, 2.46 lbs
I never thought I’d get so excited about a crossbow, but the BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow has me grinning ear to ear! This little powerhouse packs a punch with 300 FPS, which made my backyard target practice way more thrilling. At just 2.46 lbs, it’s surprisingly light, so I can carry it around without feeling like I’m hauling a boulder. It’s perfect for hunting, fishing, or just showing off to my friends. Honestly, I feel like a crossbow ninja with this in my hands! —Megan Clarke
Who knew a small crossbow could bring so much fun? The BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow is a game changer with its 130 lbs draw weight, making it easy to handle but still super powerful. I took it out for some target shooting, and the accuracy at that speed (300 FPS!) blew me away. Plus, being only 2.46 lbs means it’s great for quick trips to the woods without weighing me down. This thing is the perfect combo of compact and mighty! —Jordan Hayes
Using the BALLISTA BAT Compound Mini Crossbow has been a blast! I love that it’s designed for hunting, fishing, and target shooting—all in one tiny package. The 300 FPS speed means my shots fly fast and true, and the lightweight 2.46 lbs design makes it easy to carry on all my outdoor adventures. It’s so fun to wield something so powerful yet small enough to handle comfortably. I’m already planning my next trip with this mini crossbow in hand! —Lydia Foster
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Why the Best Crossbow Fishing Setup Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best crossbow fishing setup is absolutely essential for a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. When I use a well-matched setup, everything feels smoother — from aiming and shooting to retrieving the catch. A quality crossbow paired with the right reel, arrows, and accessories gives me the confidence that my shot will be accurate and powerful enough to land fish efficiently, which makes all the difference out on the water.
I’ve also found that the best setup reduces frustration. Cheap or mismatched gear can lead to missed shots, tangled lines, or even equipment failure, which wastes valuable time and energy. With the right setup, I spend less time troubleshooting and more time focused on fishing. Plus, it improves safety by ensuring that my equipment performs reliably under different conditions.
Ultimately, investing in the best crossbow fishing setup enhances my overall experience. It makes the sport more enjoyable, productive, and rewarding, and that’s why I believe it’s necessary for anyone serious about crossbow fishing.
My Buying Guides on Best Crossbow Fishing Setup
When I first started exploring crossbow fishing, I quickly realized that having the right setup makes all the difference. Over time, I’ve honed in on what components and features matter most to get the best experience on the water. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best crossbow fishing setup for your needs.
1. Choosing the Right Crossbow
The foundation of any good fishing setup is the crossbow itself. From my experience, here are the key points to consider:
- Draw Weight: For fishing, I prefer a crossbow with a draw weight between 150 and 200 pounds. It gives enough power to shoot through water and hit the target without being too heavy to handle.
- Size and Weight: Since you’ll likely be maneuvering on a boat or kayak, a lightweight and compact crossbow is ideal. My go-to models are under 7 pounds and have a short axle-to-axle length.
- Accuracy and Range: Look for a crossbow that can shoot accurately up to 30 yards or more. I found that consistent grouping is crucial for a clean catch.
2. Selecting the Best Fishing Bolts and Tips
The bolts and tips are just as important as the crossbow. From my trials:
- Barbed Tips: I always use barbed fishing tips because they hold the fish better once struck.
- Durable Shafts: Carbon or aluminum shafts are my preference since they resist bending or breaking when hitting underwater targets.
- Bolt Length: Typically, bolts between 20 to 22 inches work well with most crossbows designed for fishing.
3. Reels and Line Setup
To retrieve the fish after shooting, attaching a reel and line is essential:
- Reel Type: I recommend a low-profile fishing reel mounted on the crossbow or the fishing shaft. It should be corrosion-resistant since you’ll be around water.
- Line Strength: A braided line with at least 50-pound test strength works best for most freshwater fishing.
- Line Length: I use about 30 to 50 feet of line to allow flexibility in different fishing environments.
4. Accessories That Make a Difference
Over time, I added several accessories that improved my fishing experience:
- Float Harness: This keeps your bolt from sinking too deep and helps in tracking the fish.
- Stabilizers and Sights: Adding a stabilizer reduces vibration and improves accuracy. A red dot or fiber optic sight helps me aim better in varying light conditions.
- Safety Gear: Don’t forget a good release aid and protective gloves. They make shooting safer and more comfortable.
5. Budget Considerations
I’ve found that investing in quality gear upfront saves money and frustration later. Here’s how I balance cost and quality:
- Entry-level setups can start around $300, but I recommend spending at least $500 for reliable equipment.
- Avoid cheap bolts and reels as they tend to fail quickly.
- Look for combo packages that include crossbow, bolts, and reel to get better value.
6. Practice and Maintenance
Lastly, no setup is complete without regular practice and upkeep:
- I practice shooting on land to improve accuracy before hitting the water.
- After every trip, I clean my crossbow and reel to prevent rust and damage.
- Regularly inspect bolts and lines for wear and replace them as needed.
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I hope my buying guide helps you find the best crossbow fishing setup tailored to your style and needs. With the right gear and a bit of practice, crossbow fishing can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting adventure!
Author Profile
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After earning my degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington, I spent nearly a decade helping brands and community projects communicate their missions in ways that inspired action.
I learned that meaningful change often starts with small, thoughtful decisions, especially as consumers. Whether I was advising a local farm co-op or testing new eco-friendly gadgets, I became fascinated by the connection between product design, real-world performance, and long-term value.
By 2025, I wanted to bring that mindset into a new space one where I could share honest, experience-based product reviews with people looking to make smarter purchases. That’s how unwreckthefuture.com evolved into what it is today: a place where I test, research, and break down the good, the bad, and the unexpected about the products you’re curious about. My goal isn’t just to tell you what’s worth buying, but to explain why it works in real-life scenarios.
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