Most deer hunters want to take advantage of every moment of the hunting season. In order to do this, as a dedicated hunter, you must learn how to hunt deer with a bow. Bow hunting a deer or any other animal for that matter, is often quite a challenge. One of the most frequent hardships any hunter faces is being out there in less than perfect weather.
This is compounded with the need to be much closer to the deer in order to make an ethical kill. For most proficient archers, the maximum distance with a bow, in optimum conditions is about 50 yards. Being in this close to the deer creates additional burdens on the bow hunter. To start with, you may be seen while getting into position. Whether you are hunting from a tree stand, ground blind or on a spot an stalk, the closer you have to get to the deer’s location, the greater the chances of being seen.
Add to that fact, the likelihood of having the deer smell you is automatically increased. While most hunters do use scent masking products, there is still a possibility of being picked up by the deer’s keen sense of smell. Not to mention, during these harsh weather conditions, it is not always possible to have the wind direction in your favor.
So, as you can see, bow hunting whitetail can be challenging even during optimal circumstances. It is this increased difficulty that provides an added attraction to many hunters. It improves “fair chase” as well as the level of satisfaction when you are successful.
You need to be ready to bow hunt under any type of adverse weather conditions. Here are 3 tips to help you be ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
1.
Practice during adverse weather conditions. Though this may seem like a “no brainer,” many hunters are lazy and don’t take the time to practice at all during the off season. It is especially important to practice during windy conditions as this is probably the most common scenario you will face while in the field. When practicing, be sure to attempt shots at many different distances. To increase the realism, find a 3-D shoot in your area or use a 3-D target at varying distances.
2.
Know your limitations. Under normal circumstances, you may be a proficient archer at 50 yards. However, during windy conditions this distance may be cut in half. This is the reason to practice shooting at a target at many distances. You will learn your limitations and the limitations of your equipment through trial and error.
3.
Use the right equipment. This may seem like a bit of an ambiguous statement, but it is actually very important. This does not mean, you need one brand of equipment over another. It does mean however that you must know your equipment, how it operates and its limitations during these conditions. There is one piece of your equipment you can change which will increase your success rate.
Change the veins on your arrows. Use a vein not more than 3 inches long and one which has a 3% helical. The helical will allow your arrow to cut into the wind immediately when it clears your rest. This will start your arrow spinning more quickly and help to keep it on a flatter trajectory.
Bowhunting whitetail deer can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. Putting these tips into action will not only increase your success, but your enjoyment and appreciation for the sport.
Discover more tips about bows and bowhunting whitetail deer by checking out the free information on my website.
By: Keith Cantelmo About the Author:
