Texas Fish Species

Fish Species You Can Target with Stick and Stack Bow Fishing in Texas

Bowfishing Action in Southeast Texas Waters

At Stick and Stack Bow Fishing, we offer guided bowfishing Sabine River and Sabine Lake trips targeting some of the most exciting species in Southeast Texas. The area's shallow, muddy waters are home to a variety of rough fish perfect for bowfishing, including common carp, grass carp, buffalo carp, and multiple types of gar, such as spotted gar, needle-nosed gar, small gar, and the legendary alligator gar. Whether you're new to the sport or looking to land a trophy, our local waters deliver consistent action and big targets year-round.

The best time for Texas bowfishing trips is from March through early November, when fish are active and most visible near the surface. Alligator gar season peaks from late April to mid-October, especially during warmer nights when these prehistoric fish cruise the shallows. Meanwhile, common carp and buffalo carp are abundant in spring and summer, offering constant opportunities for beginners and skilled shooters alike. With clear nighttime lighting and expert positioning, our trips are designed to put you right where the fish are.

As your trusted bowfishing guide in Texas, Captain Kadin Tantzen uses six years of experience to lead trips that are tailored to all ages and skill levels. Whether you're targeting spotted gar in the Sabine River or chasing large carp in backwater areas of Sabine Lake, each outing is fully equipped and carefully planned. With the right water conditions, equipment, and guide knowledge, your chances of success are high. Book your Southeast Texas bowfishing trip today and take aim at the region’s most iconic fish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Target Species in Texas

When is the best time to bowfish for alligator gar in Texas?

The best time to target alligator gar in Texas is from late April through mid-October, when water temperatures rise and gar are more active in shallow zones. Night trips during this season offer better visibility and more shot opportunities.

What species can I expect to shoot during a Sabine River bowfishing trip?

During a guided bowfishing Sabine River trip, you can expect to encounter spotted gar, common carp, buffalo carp, grass carp, and even needle-nosed gar. This stretch of river is a hotspot for both action and variety.

What’s the best bowfishing technique for catching spotted gar?

For spotted gar, shallow backwater areas with submerged vegetation are ideal. We use high-powered LED lighting to illuminate the fish at night, and aim low due to light refraction—a skill Captain Kadin helps you master quickly.

How can I book a trip to target alligator gar with Stick and Stack Bow Fishing?

Booking a trip is easy! Visit our website, choose your desired trip type (like our 6-hour alligator gar bowfishing trip), select your date, and reserve online. You can also call directly to discuss custom options and seasonal availability.

Is bowfishing in Southeast Texas good year-round?

While we operate from March to early November, the best bowfishing in Southeast Texas happens in spring and summer. That’s when fish like carp and gar move into shallow, well-lit areas, giving you more shot opportunities per trip.

A Stick and Stack Bow Fishing Guided Fishing Trip targets the top Texas Fish species including Common Carp, Grass Carp, Buffalo Carp, Bow fish, Small Gar, Big gator Gar, Spotted Gar, Needle-nosed Gar, Alligator Gar.. We primarily Fish the Sabine Lake, Sabine River, Horseshoe Lake, Old River, Adams Bayou, Little Cypress Bayou, Big Bayou, Little West Pass, Conway Bayou, Brenam Bayou, Marie Gully.