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Gretchen Steele: Bowfishing a great outdoor sport, and a conservation tool

DNR Coordinator Jen Randolph learns to bowfish at an event at Giant City State Park in Illinois. (Photos by Gretchen Steele)

Few outdoor sports activities evoke the raw thrill of bowfishing. It’s an unique blend of archery prowess and angler finesse, where enthusiasts aim not for trophies mounted on walls but for conservation and ecological balance. While some may perceive bowfishing as solely recreational, its potential as a conservation tool is often underestimated. When executed responsibly, bowfishing can be vital in preserving aquatic ecosystems.

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