Getting started in bow hunting requires careful planning. You need to consider not only your target animal but also the terrain in which you will hunt, determining what types of cover and concealment will help you remain hidden. Many hunters choose to stalk their game, relying on camouflage and the natural cover of their surroundings, while others may prefer to use hunting blinds or tree stands.
In addition to choosing the type of animal you wish to hunt and selecting a bow, you need to decide on your shooting method. Unlike gun hunting, where you can shoot from open ground, bowhunting involves being able to get close enough to the animal that you are able to place your shot accurately. This can be a challenge for beginners, but practice will make perfect.
Most states require all archers to complete a hunter safety course, which is designed to teach the basic skills and laws of hunting. The courses also cover topics such as game identification, ethics, laws, shot placement, animal recovery methods, and other important aspects of the sport.
Once you have completed your hunter safety course, it is time to select a bow. While there are countless products on the market, you should focus less on brand names and more on finding one that fits your needs. Pay attention to the grip, noise level, brace height (the distance from the bowstring to the archer’s arm) and axle-to-axle length. The best bow for beginners is a long-draw, light draw weight model that will allow you to increase the poundage as your muscles develop.
As you practice, work on hitting the center of a bullseye. Over time, you should be able to hit the bullseye four out of five times at 30 yards. This will allow you to take ethical shots that put the animal’s heart in a vital spot and cause it as little suffering as possible.
Before you head out on your first hunt, make sure to practice at home with 3D targets, which offer a realistic representation of the animals that you will be hunting. It can take up to three months of steady, focused practice to acquire acceptable skills. Holding at full draw, especially for a prolonged period of time, is difficult for most beginners, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.
While you can find numerous resources on the Internet, it is best to learn from a qualified instructor. Most archery clubs and ranges have coaches or mentors who will teach you everything from proper stance to aiming at different distances. Some stores even offer a free lesson when you purchase a bow from them. If there are no mentors available to you, then find a certified instructor online.