Attention gator hunters.

[Apex Predator]

I'm expecting to draw my first tag this year.  I'm getting geared up to shoot one with my longbow, but had a few questions that I haven't found the answer to yet.  I tried shooting a 1200 grain fish arrow, but it was way over-spined and almost took my side plate off.  I stuffed one of my Heritage 90s with plastic tube and a brazing rod.  It shoots well and weighs 1200 grains.  I guess I'll just buy some points that are designed to come off the shaft?  How do you get close to one?  I assume a trolling motor, but is there a special way to approach one.  A special kind of light?  Any tips welcome.  Thanks.

[Rick McGowan]

I just put my application in today, but I don't think I can get drawn this year. What weight bow are you shooting the fish arrow from? The standard fiberglass fish arrow is only about 55# spine. I'd contact Mark Land at Muzzy, he may check in here, they have all the stuff you need.

[Apex Predator]

This one I have is graphite and stiff is all get out.  I shoot 50# longbows.  I'll see if I can find a fiberglass one.

[dennis rice]

Get ahold of Mark Land he sells a Gater Gitter rig
from what i here it the best way to go it's a whole kit with everything you need if i can i will try to get you his number

[alligatordond]

Well, there's a bunch of ways to do it. A red light helps but alot depends on how wary or pressured the gators are. It can be very hard to get within fish arrow distance with a trolling motor. The first arrow doesn't have to go thru the gator but simply get the barb into the hide. The second arrow, shot at close range usually, is the penetrating broadhead tipped kill arrow. Send it right thru the vitals and you have a dead gator. A 2nd lined arrow into the gator is always helpful in case the 1st one pulls out.

Back in the early 90's before this became popular, I used a half 2 liter Coke bottle bolted to my bow as my "reel" , construction twine as my line,a milk jug as my float, a Zwickey broadhead drilled to accept a finish nail as my barb, mounted to an aluminum shaft. The finish arrow was usually a standard POC shaft with a Zwickey broadhead. The combo worked ok though I did pull out on a nice 11 footer.
I know several guys who have used bowfishing rigs successfully and no float as the reel has plenty of line. They simply take the reel off and hand it to the guy handling the line.

I do think it would be difficult to do by yourself so I'd line up "assistants" with specific assignments.

Sorry if I rambled along too much and I'll defer to those who have more technical expertise than I.

[Apex Predator]

Any one else?

[Benjy]

I have been drawn for a tag here in SC!!!! 1st season ever open for gators.