Although the WIDNR are unable to provide an official date for when bowfishing was legalized, it's difficult to find generations unfamiliar with bowfishing history from "the olden days." Records indicate that Native Americans practiced a form of bowfishing, using specialized arrow tips to catch fish, though it differs from the methods used today. Despite the evolution over the years, bowfishing remains a moderately simple sport, with its equipment largely unchanged. However, the legality of bowfishing has undergone significant transformations. It wasn't until the 1990s that there was a significant push for the next major development in bowfishing—nighttime bowfishing. The lobbying for nighttime bowfishing began in 1995, led by Chris Cass, but it only entered the testing phase in 1999, officially opening for the first night of bowfishing on April 1, 2000. This initial test period lasted three years and was restricted to 53 lakes in Wisconsin.
Earlier that same year, on January 15, 2000, the Wisconsin Bowfishing Association (WBA) was established, creating by-laws, a constitution, a mission statement, tournament rules, and much more. Many individuals deserve recognition for their efforts in founding the WBA, which has been instrumental in the growth of the sport:
Elected officials that night included:
- Steve Beres (first President)
- Ric Tudor (VP)
- Chris Cass (Secretary/Treasurer)
Additionally, several men stepped up to be the first regional representatives:
- Fred Christen (Region 1)
- Kevin Smedbron (Region 2)
- Mike Paulcheck (Region 3)
- Steve Geiger (Region 4)
- Mark Beres (Region 5)
- Bill Zolecki (Region 6)
Special thanks also go to Bob Trepanier (Rep. for Illinois) and Mark Ellenberg (Minnesota). There were 14 others in attendance that day to help create the WBA. Without their collective efforts, it’s uncertain where we would stand today.
Three years later, following a few minor challenges, nighttime bowfishing was legalized statewide. By around 2006, significant changes occurred when most bowfishing seasons were removed, allowing for more flexibility, though some regional seasons still apply today.
Another major milestone came in 2020, when the list of fish species allowed for capture was expanded. Catfish and bullhead were officially added to the list of target species, provided that anglers adhere to the hook and line regulations for harvest information.
As we continue to write our history, our displays, passion for the sport, and commitment to education are all part of our efforts to keep the narrative of bowfishing moving positively forward!
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