Taking the time to practice shooting your bow as often as possible plays a critical role in maintaining strength and muscle memory, and also shows respect for the animal you will be hunting. Accurate shooting in practice leads to clean shots, quick kills and faster recovery of downed animals in the field.
Ethical hunters should always strive for the most effective shots for themselves and the animal. Even though I can’t always reproduce what will happen in the field during practice, I want the basics of shooting to be 100 percent instinctual during a hunt. I strive to practice two to three times per week by shooting 10-30 arrows from various distances during a session. The amount of shooting typically increases with equipment changes or upcoming hunting trips.
Unfortunately, some practice sessions lead to frustration – especially when I’m having a bad day or lacking focus. During these instances, I have learned that the best option is to put my bow down and walk away, rather than develop bad habits. Usually, I will come back to the next session more focused and determined. Some ruts can last longer than others. If that happens, I shift check my form or equipment to ensure I’m not just having a bad day.
I am blessed to live on two acres of land where I can practice, but I wasn’t always so fortunate. If you live in an apartment or another location that makes shooting impossible, networking may provide a solution. Join local hunting forums to make connections with others who have similar interests or can offer opportunities to practice. I would often travel to a friend’s house to shoot. If you have a small yard, continue to practice at short distances to maintain strength and form. If you can afford it, use your local bow shop’s archery range. My passion for bowhunting drives me to practice. Practice drives me to perfection.