Imagine snagging a shot at one of Nebraska’s prehistoric paddlefish—massive, shark-like swimmers that can stretch 7 feet and weigh over 150 pounds—using nothing but a bow and arrow. That’s the thrill the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is teeing up with their archery paddlefish permit applications, open from March 1-14. For a nonrefundable $7 fee, hunters enter a random drawing weighted by preference points, with results dropping by March 20 and payments due April 5. It’s a rare bowhunting opportunity on the Missouri River, where these ancient fish migrate upstream to spawn, turning the water into a gladiatorial arena for archers skilled enough to arrow one from a boat.

This isn’t just fish tale fodder; it’s a masterclass in archery’s lethal precision mirroring the self-reliant ethos at the heart of the 2A community. Paddlefish archery demands the same steady hand, split-second judgment, and intimate weapon familiarity as drawing a bead on big game with a compound bow or crossbow—skills honed on the range that translate directly to personal defense scenarios. In a world where anti-gun zealots push assault weapon bans, events like this spotlight archery’s unregulated power: no background checks, no mag limits, just pure marksmanship. Preference points reward dedication, much like the 2A grind of training and advocacy, ensuring spots go to those who’ve earned them through persistence.

For 2A patriots, it’s a rallying call—grab those apps early, stack points for future draws, and celebrate the untamed freedom of the bow. This slice of Nebraska wild underscores why we fight: sustainable hunting traditions preserve our rights, keeping archery (and by extension, the right to bear arms) vibrant against creeping restrictions. Whether you’re a bowhunter or just love the principle, it’s a reminder that self-reliance swims deep in American veins. Apply now at the NGPC site and reel in your piece of history.