I'm looking for information from anyone with experience shooting large alligators with traditional equipment. What head, arrow, # line, reel and buoy.

I intend on using a 19" Satori riser with 45# limbs with a stabilizer insert. I'm thinking I will use this for the initial engagement, then use a harpoon for a second.

Any information is appreciated.

I have killed plenty. Get the Slotted retriever reel. Muzzy trocar bowfishing head and some good fiberglass arrows with head pinned and glued. Use the muzzy products. Good luck and it's addicting.

you'll get lot of good advice here- be patient and give a few of these gentlemen time to google it and do a little research on the subject before they present you with a suggestion.... HAHAHA.

No expert, but I've hunted them and been with folks who have as well.

Best I can tell, it depends on how you want to hunt them. If you spot and stalk them while they're sunning, you can use any arrow/broadhead combination you'd use for deer. If you can put an arrow thru that pocket behind their leg, it won't take much to take out both lungs.

Of course you can expect the darn thing to take to water, then you'll need big line, hooks and weight to snag him and get him out.

I killed one from a jon boat using fish arrows and floats. Once we got him tired and pulled him in, a broadhead in the back of his head finished the job.

I'll be applying for a GA alligator quota hunt with 5 points, so I should draw this year.

GA law requires method to have a line attached. I've been with others in years past using a harpoon. The biggest Gators always seemed to sink just out of harpoon range. Hoping to increase range past 10 yds.

I've seen three different Gators over 11 ft this year. I plan on holding out for a good one.

Fulldraw's advise is along the lines I've been thinking. I'll get some equipment and give it a try. Thanks all.

Sounds like an adventure! I guess if I were going to try it, I would use my #55 Howatt Hunter..... because it’s the only bow I own with a stab insert.

Seems like somebody ought to make a dedicated alligator head. Something you could get really sharp up front with some extremely solid barbs to prevent it from pulling back out.

Also seems like one of those things where you might be able to talk yourself into a few extra pounds, given that the shots are going to have to be short, what with your arrow on a leash and all…

Mark- get in touch with Jerry Russell. Russelloutdoorguides.com. He’s a pro. He can answer whatever questions you may have. He’s up around Dawsonville. I bet you probably already know him.

Show yours Jimmy.,

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