LCRA Bowfishing Pilot Program

LCRA bowfishing regulations

About the Program
LCRA is continuing a pilot program to allow bowfishing on most of the Highland Lakes from July 25, 2007 through June 30, 2008. The pilot program allows bowfishing from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. only on lakes Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls, and Travis.

Pilot Program Requirements
Anyone bowfishing under this pilot program must comply with the requirements below. This program does not in any way affect the prohibitions against hunting with, possessing, or shooting a weapon on LCRA land (see Texas Parks and Wildlife Code §62.081 or the LCRA Land and Water Use Regulations). LCRA reserves the right to discontinue this pilot program at any time.

General Requirements
Anyone bowfishing under this pilot program must:

Have the appropriate state fishing license
Fish taken or attempted to be taken must comply with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s guidelines (see page 33 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's 2007-2008 Outdoor Annual Handbook).
Take or attempt to take fish by the use of a bow and arrow only during the hours between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Have in possession a copy of LCRA's Bowfishing Regulations.

Any violations of these requirements will be considered a violation of the LCRA Land and Water Use Regulations.

Equipment Requirements
Anyone bowfishing under this pilot program must use bowfishing equipment that complies with these requirements:

The arrow used must be constructed of a solid shaft and equipped with a heavy fishing point. Arrows designed for flight through the air are not permitted.
There must be attached to the arrow a line or cord with a test strength greater than or equal to a 50-pound test line.
The bow used to propel the arrow must be one that is hand-pulled and hand-released. Crossbows and draw locking mechanisms are prohibited. All other equipment and activities must comply with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Outdoor Annual Handbook. Individuals with disabilities should contact LCRA Conservation Services at 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 2763 for additional information.

Public Safety Requirements
Anyone bowfishing under this pilot program must comply with these public safety requirements:

The taking or attempting to take fish by the use of a bow and arrow may not be performed within 75 feet of the outer limits of any marked and designated swimming area or within 50 feet of any boat dock, pier or restricted or residential areas.
On Lake LBJ, bowfishing is prohibited within 100 feet of the intake and outlet canals related to the Ferguson Power Plant.
All bowfishing must take place from a boat. Bowfishing is not allowed from the bank, from a boat dock, or while wading.
Boaters should be courteous to lakefront property owners with respect to noise (airboats and generators) and light setups (angles and number of lights)
All fish taken should be removed from the lake and disposed of in a responsible manner.

For more information, contact asklcra@lcra.org or call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 2763.

--Updated Aug. 14, 2007