Fishing With a Crossbow? Pending Bill Would Make It A Reality

Representative David Craig (R-Town of Vernon) introduced legislation, co-authored by Representative Chad Weininger (R-Green Bay), which would allow the taking of 'rough fish' with a crossbow, according to a release from Rep. Craig's office. 

A companion bill in the Senate is being introduced by Senator Neal Kedzie (R-Elkhorn).  Currently, the law allows a person to take a rough fish with a bow and arrow and rod and reel but does not allow fishing with a crossbow.  Rep. Craig’s bill would allow all sportsmen, including disabled sportsmen—who are otherwise unable to utilize a bow and arrow—to fish for rough fish with a crossbow.

“This bill is a win-win-win bill for taxpayers, disabled sportsmen and women and Wisconsin’s environment,” Craig said.

The bill also defines Asian carp as rough fish.  Current law allows sportsmen to kill only one Asian Carp, which must be then taken to the DNR.  Defining Asian Carp as rough fish will generally allow their harvesting by Wisconsin sportsmen in an unlimited number and by a variety of methods not currently allowed. 

The state of Wisconsin has been especially concerned about the invasive species, as their presence has been noted in Illinois waterways. Conservationists fear what their impact will be on the great lakes and inland Wisconsin lakes should they breach locks. The Asian carp, can also be dangerous to people who recreate in infected waters, and will jump out of the water at boaters.

The hope in passing legislation is to prevent the proliferation of the fish should efforts to contain them fail. Neighboring states have sued Illinois to close locks along the Illinois River to prevent the fish from entering Lake Michigan.

Locally, the connection to the Illinois River is closer than one might think.  Big Muskego flows south to Wind Lake, which flows into the Fox River, eventually reaching the Illinois.  While none have been discovered yet, Muskego Conservation Coordinator Tom Zagar has said they are watching the fish populations and movement from the south.

“My bill expands fishing options for disabled sportsmen and women and others by allowing the harvesting of rough fish with crossbow,” said Representative Craig.  “By defining Asian Carp as rough fish, the bill also includes our sportsmen in the fight to rid our waters of Asian Carp."