Ready to take on one of the wildest fishing challenges Texas has to offer? Grab your bow and join us for a heart-pumping night of alligator gar bowfishing on the Sabine River. This ain't your average fishing trip – we're talking about stalking prehistoric monsters under the cover of darkness. Our 6-hour guided adventure puts you right in the action, giving you a shot at landing a true river beast. Whether you're a seasoned bowfisher or looking to notch your first gator gar, this trip is guaranteed to get your adrenaline flowing.
Here's the lowdown on our Private 6 Hour Alligator Gar Bowfishing Trip: We kick off around 7:30 PM, just as the big boys start to get active. You'll be cruising the Sabine in our decked-out Grizzly Tracker Jon Boat, rigged up with lights that'll make spotting these toothy giants a breeze. We've got room for up to three bow-wielding anglers, so bring your crew or make some new fishing buddies. The price tag is $400 for two people, with an extra $200 if you want to add a third. Trust me, having an extra set of eyes (and arrows) can make all the difference when you're after these bruisers.
If you've never gone after alligator gar before, you're in for a treat. These aren't your average fish – we're talking about living fossils that can grow over 8 feet long and pack more attitude than a cornered bobcat. Bowfishing for them is a whole different ball game compared to regular angling. We use specialized bows and arrows designed to take down these armored beasts. The key is patience and a steady hand. When we spot a gar, you'll need to account for water refraction (fancy way of saying the fish isn't exactly where it looks like it is) before letting that arrow fly. It's challenging, but man, when you connect with a big one, there's nothing like it.
Ask any seasoned bowfisher why they keep coming back for gator gar, and you'll probably hear something about the rush. There's just something primal about hunting these massive fish under the stars. It's not just about the size – though that's definitely part of it. It's the whole experience: the anticipation as you scan the water, the split-second decision to shoot, and the battle that follows when you stick a big one. Plus, there's a real satisfaction in helping to manage these populations. Alligator gar play an important role in the ecosystem, but in some areas, their numbers need to be kept in check. By targeting them, you're not just having a blast – you're also doing your part for conservation.
Alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula) are the stuff of Texas legend. These prehistoric-looking fish can trace their lineage back over 100 million years, earning them the nickname "living fossils." But don't let their age fool you – these are some of the most formidable predators in our rivers. Growing up to 8 feet long and tipping the scales at over 300 pounds, a full-grown gator gar is a sight to behold. They've got a mouth full of needle-sharp teeth and a body covered in armor-like scales that can dull a knife.
What makes them perfect for bowfishing is their habit of hanging out near the surface, especially at night. They're ambush predators, often floating motionless while waiting for prey to swim by. This behavior makes them ideal targets for a well-placed arrow. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. That's when they're most active and often gathering in groups to spawn.
One of the coolest things about alligator gar is their ability to breathe air. You might spot them coming to the surface to gulp air, which they can store in their swim bladder. This adaptation allows them to survive in water with low oxygen levels, making them true river survivors. Landing one of these prehistoric giants is a trophy-worthy achievement that'll give you bragging rights for years to come.
Look, I'm not gonna sugarcoat it – this trip isn't for the faint of heart. But if you're after a fishing experience that'll get your blood pumping and potentially put you face-to-face with a living dinosaur, you won't find anything better than our alligator gar bowfishing adventure. We've only got so many nights available during prime season (late April to mid-October), and spots fill up fast. So if you're ready to test your skills against one of Texas' most impressive predators, don't wait. Book your trip with Stick and Stack Bow Fishing now, and get ready for a night on the Sabine you'll never forget. Trust me, once you stick your first gator gar, you'll be hooked for life.
Alligator gar are living fossils, reaching up to 6 feet long and 160 pounds. These prehistoric-looking monsters lurk in the deep bends and pools of the Sabine River. With armor-like scales and a mouthful of sharp teeth, they're an impressive sight when brought to the surface. Late summer is prime time, when hot, dry weather concentrates them in deeper holes. We'll cruise at night under lights, looking for their reflective eyes. Gator gar will hit cut bait like carp or buffalo, but bowfishing is the most exciting way to target them. These fish put up a serious fight – it's like battling a gator on the end of your line. The challenge of landing one keeps anglers coming back. Plus, there's nothing quite like seeing a fish that looks like it swam straight out of the Jurassic era. One local trick: Focus on slack water near faster current. The gar hang there to ambush prey washing downstream. Be patient and keep your eyes peeled – when you spot one, you'll know it!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90