TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow Review

Let’s Talk About TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow

Bowfishing. It’s a unique blend of archery and angling that demands specialized gear. I’ve spent years wading through murky waters, chasing carp, gar, and anything else that dares to swim within range, and I’m excited to share my insights on the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow.

My quest for the perfect bowfishing arrow led me to the TruGlo Carpedo. I needed something that could withstand repeated abuse, penetrate tough scales, and, most importantly, reliably hold onto the fish.

Upon unboxing, the Carpedo’s bright green fiberglass shaft immediately stood out. The TruGlo arrow feels robust and well-made, hinting at durability and performance.

I’ve used several bowfishing arrows in the past, including the AMS Fiberglass Chaos and Cajun Yellowjacket. The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow appeared to have a more aggressive barb design, which promised better holding power than the AMS and the brighter shaft was more visible than the Yellowjacket.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Carpedo looked the part of a serious bowfishing arrow. Now it was time to see if it could play the part too.


Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow was on a local reservoir known for its hefty carp population. The water was murky, visibility was low, and the carp were skittish.

The Carpedo performed admirably, even in challenging conditions. The arrow penetrated cleanly, and the mechanical barbs deployed reliably. I quickly noted that the bright green shaft aided in tracking the arrow underwater, which was a great feature, considering the murky water.

The only initial issue I encountered was with the slide. It seemed a little stiff initially, but a drop of lubricant quickly remedied the problem.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow has proven to be a reliable performer. It has endured countless shots, multiple fish catches, and even a few accidental impacts with submerged rocks.

The fiberglass shaft shows minimal signs of wear, and the stainless steel point remains sharp and rust-free. I make sure to rinse it with fresh water after each use, which helps prevent corrosion and ensures smooth operation of the mechanical barbs.

Compared to some of the cheaper bowfishing arrows I’ve used in the past, the Carpedo is in a different class. It has significantly better penetration, holding power, and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow

Specifications

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow boasts several key specifications:

  • It features a 6-sided stainless steel tip for enhanced penetration. This is important for getting through the tough scales of fish like carp and gar.
  • Mechanical barbs ensure a secure hold on even the largest fish. No more heartbreaking escapes!
  • The arrow includes toothed barbs for improved grip during retrieval. This prevents the arrow from slipping during the reeling process.
  • It’s constructed from premium grade hardened stainless steel. This ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to corrosion.
  • The Carpedo uses a fluorescent green fiberglass shaft for high visibility. This helps track the arrow in murky water and makes it easier to locate after the shot.
  • Each arrow weighs a massive 575 grains, maximizing kinetic energy. This results in greater penetration power and better stopping force.

These specifications work together to create a bowfishing arrow that is accurate, powerful, and reliable. The combination of a heavy point, durable shaft, and aggressive barbs makes the Carpedo a formidable weapon in the hands of any bowfisherman.

Performance & Functionality

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow excels at its primary job: reliably hitting and holding onto fish. Its accuracy is excellent, even at longer ranges (within the practical limits of bowfishing, of course).

The TruGlo Carpedo has strengths in its holding power, and its durability in the face of the elements. Its weaknesses include the need for slide lubrication, and that the barbs can occasionally get hung up on dense vegetation.

It meets and often exceeds my expectations for a bowfishing arrow. It’s tough, accurate, and dependable.

Design & Ergonomics

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow’s build quality is excellent. The stainless steel components are well-machined, and the fiberglass shaft is smooth and straight.

The weight of the arrow feels balanced in the hand, and the bright green color is easy to see in various lighting conditions. There is a slight learning curve, but even a novice bowfisherman can be accurate with the Carpedo in a short time.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow should last for many seasons of bowfishing. The stainless steel point is resistant to rust, and the fiberglass shaft is tough enough to withstand repeated impacts with rocks and other submerged objects.

The arrow is easy to maintain. Simply rinse it with fresh water after each use and occasionally lubricate the slide mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow comes complete with a slide, stop, and nock, making it ready to use right out of the package. Customization options are limited, but the nock can be replaced with different colors or styles to suit personal preferences.

The Carpedo is compatible with most standard bowfishing reels and line systems, making it easy to integrate into an existing bowfishing setup. Be sure to use a bowfishing specific line to prevent snapbacks.

Pros and Cons of TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow

Pros

  • Exceptional holding power: The mechanical and toothed barbs ensure a secure grip on even the largest fish.
  • Excellent penetration: The 6-sided stainless steel tip and heavy weight deliver maximum kinetic energy.
  • High visibility: The fluorescent green fiberglass shaft is easy to track in murky water.
  • Durable construction: Premium grade hardened stainless steel and fiberglass ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Ready to use: Comes complete with slide, stop, and nock.

Cons

  • The slide mechanism can be stiff and may require lubrication.
  • The barbs can occasionally snag on dense vegetation.


Who Should Buy TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow?

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow is perfect for serious bowfishermen who demand reliability, durability, and exceptional holding power. It’s also a good choice for beginners who want a high-quality arrow that will perform well right out of the package.

This arrow may not be ideal for very shallow water bowfishing due to the more aggressive barb design. People who fish primarily in weed-choked areas may want to consider alternatives with more streamlined barb deployment.

I recommend pairing the TruGlo Carpedo with a high-quality bowfishing reel and durable line.

Conclusion on TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow

The TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow is a top-tier arrow that delivers outstanding performance and durability. The price of $39.99 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and overall effectiveness.

I wholeheartedly recommend the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow to anyone looking to up their bowfishing game. It’s a reliable, accurate, and powerful arrow that will help you land more fish and enjoy your time on the water.

Gear up with the TruGlo Carpedo Bowfishing Arrow and experience the thrill of bowfishing like never before! You won’t regret it.

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