More states allow hunting with crossbows at various times of the year (check out local laws to be sure). Not interested in becoming proficient with a bow? Are you a firearms hunter looking to extend your hunting season but not interested in a traditional recurve or compound bow? Consider a crossbow.Ĭrossbows are not legal in every state and were often reserved for disabled hunters. A Crossbow Is a Good Alternative Image from Shutterstock However, I would still say going to an archery shop or range to get some proper instruction is important. If you have room in your own yard, you can get a target, and shoot to your heart’s content. I’d also suggest going to a local archery range.

A proper arrow rest, bow sight, string silencers, release, can go a long way. Compound bows are best for hunting deer, and the various archery accessories you’ll find for sale shorten the learning curve. In order to get up to speed no matter your experience level, you’ll need some archery gear. However, if you were once a proficient bowhunter, you should be able to get back into the swing of things pretty quickly. If you’re a former bowhunter but out of practice, again, I’d say to give it a little time. You need to be accurate and comfortable shooting your bow, and that takes time and practice. If you’re hoping to bow hunt this season and haven’t ever really shot a bow, I’d say to take a year to practice. One that can prove to be humbling, exciting, and downright frustrating at times, but it’s also extremely rewarding when you get it right. Bowhunting can be a transformative experience. If you’re proficient with a shotgun or a rifle and you’re looking for a new challenge try bow hunting. If you’re looking for new challenges or are ready to up your game in some way, the following topics might help you along the way. So, before you head out into the woods and fields pursuing deer, squirrels, rabbit, upland game birds, or migratory birds, give the following points a thought. It’s about prepping the location you plan to hunt, setting a game plan, and getting the right hunting gear for this year’s hunting trips.Įvery hunt is a little different and every year is different, too. This goes beyond getting some new ammo and that scope you’ve had your eye set on. Hunting season is right around the corner, and everyone is (or should be) gearing up.

Gander mountain duck call