Gear Review: Muzzy Bowfishing Addict

After our entire camp tagged out early on a recent pronghorn hunting trip, we spent a sunny day walking along the banks of Wyoming's Platte River with the Muzzy Bowfishing Addict in hand. Our crew arrowed several carp that afternoon, thanks to the incredibly easy-to-use rig.

The 58-inch-long recurve has a 40-pound draw weight at 28 inches. The Addict sports a non-slip soft grip for comfort throughout hours of shooting. The magnesium riser provides strength and vibration reduction, while laminated maple and fiberglass limbs keep the rig lightweight (just 2.25 lbs.). The three-piece takedown design is easy to assemble and compact enough to fit alongside other gear in your luggage.

In addition to the Addict bow, Muzzy's Bowfishing Kit also includes an XD Pro Reel with 150-pound line installed, arrow rest and Fish Bone arrow with quick-release carp point — everything you need to get out on the water at an affordable price point. The stainless steel XD Pro Reel — also available á la carte — features a finger-activated lever switch to quickly flip from an open to locked bail and provide visual indication that it's ready to shoot.

With a quick disassembly, I traveled home from that trip with my Addict packed in a bow case tucked next to my hunting setup. After my new rig quite literally got me addicted to bowfishing, I took it out on the local river several times and had even more success. While my friends were fumbling with cumbersome reels and awkward, heavy setups, I was able to quickly retrieve my arrow and keep sending shots into the illuminated water — without the arm fatigue that often comes from shooting at fish with a heavy rig for several hours.

Whether you're a seasoned bowfisher or new to arrowing buffalo and carp, the Muzzy Addict is sure to get you hooked.