Archive for August, 2009
Deer Hunting Assets
Deer Hunting Tips: Deer Hunting Assets
There are many assets and tips that can be contributed to successful deer hunting. If you were to poll a group of hunters on what the most important assets are, you may recieve a variety of answers. However, there are a few basics that should be followed by all hunters.
Deer Knowledge
In any aspect of life, knowledge is always beneficial. It only makes since that this will be true in the deer hunting woods as well. Hunters that spend time learning as much as possible about the habits of whitetails generally will be more consistent in harvesting the animal.
In order to gain this knowledge, hunters should take the time to study as much of the available information as one can find on deer. There are tons of articles, videos, seminars, and other learning forms. The hunter also needs to spend as much time as possible in the field hunting, observing, and keeping notes.
Deer Persistence
Another important factor is to be persistent. Especially when it comes to hunting mature deer, it is not uncommon for even the most dedicated of hunters to become frustrated. Mature animals have gained age by being woods wise. They make very few mistakes and offer the greatest of challenges. A persistent hunter overcomes frustrations and other obstacles in order to be successful.
Hunter Intelligence
You don’t need a college degree to hunt deer. You do however need to be willing to put gathered learning to use. Understanding deer activity and movement only adds to hunter intelligence. Make a game plan and hunt smart. Use the deer’s three main defenses to your advantage. Use proper concealment methods, limit noise, and always pay attention to scent.
Weapon Proficiency
When it all boils down to crunch time, the last asset of success falls on being proficient with the weapon of choice. All the previous skills won’t matter if you can’t hit what you are aiming at. Never enter the woods without first mastering your shooting skills. This will require dedication and practice. Understand the effectiveness of the weapon and don’t take shots outside of your skill level. You owe it to yourself and to the deer to be an ethical hunter.
Good luck, be safe, and enjoy your next hunting experience.
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Compound Bow Shooting
Shooting the compound bow and arrow, like any other weapon used to harvest deer, requires the hunter to practice and have quality equipment. The hunter will be able to maintain consistent accuracy by following a few basic steps.
Proper Form And Follow Through
The stance for a bow hunter is similar to that of shooting a rifle. The feet should be spread approximately shoulder width apart to allow for good balance. Stand sideways to the target and rotate the upper body in the targets direction. Draw the bow string straight back in one smooth motion without jerking, straining, or raising the bow in the air. If this is not possible, the bow pull weight is too heavy and needs to be decreased. Place the drawn bow string on a consistent anchor point on the side of the face.
Once the bow is back and on target, make sure not to grip the bow too tightly. A strong grip may create unnecessary torque which may result in poor accuracy. Keep the elbow of the arm holding the bow slightly bent to help maintain a stable form. Release the arrow and allow the bow to move naturally forward without trying to stop it. Stay focused on the target to permit correct follow through until arrow impact. Make sure to stay relaxed and not tense up while shooting.
Mental Focus
The mental side of shooting a bow is just as important as the physical side. Make sure to concentrate on form during each shot. Every arrow should be focused on as well. Don’t get in a hurry. Shoot each arrow as if it is the only one that will be shot. Pick out a small space on the target and focus on it. Although you should be aware of the arrow release, it should be natural and almost a surprise.
Field Practice
Once you have mastered the basics, it is then time to incorporate these skills for the deer hunting field. One good approach is to begin shooting at different positions and distances. For example, shoot from a stand if it is to be used while hunting. Also set out targets at unknown distances which will require yardage estimates. Change the angles of the targets to mock how a deer may approach. It is also good to practice from sitting, kneeling, and bent over positions, such as those that may occur while deer hunting.
So practice, concentrate, and focus your way to better accuracy. Good luck, be safe, and enjoy your next hunting experience.
Natural Ground Blinds
Although deer hunting from a stand is an excellent resource, there will be times when an appropriate tree is not available. Rather than using a portable manufactured blind, a natural ground blind may be a better choice.
Natural ground blinds are made by simply using available materials found in nature. This can be blown down trees, standing corn stalks, bushes, brush piles, tall grass, broken limbs, or any other material found in nature that can be used to break the outline of the hunter.
The best approach is to locate areas of deer travel that already have these materials near by. It will probably be necessary to trim away a few holes to shoot through or to add a few additional materials to insure concealment. The idea is to keep the natural look and not create a man made structure that sticks out to the deer.
Make sure to use a comfortable stool inside the blind. This will help reduce fatigue and allow for longer sitting. If possible try to have back support such as a standing tree or an attached back rest for the stool.
Always pay attention to the wind. Use a good scent blocking suit or saturate your clothing in a scent illumination product. If the wind is not in your favor, choose another location to hunt.
Good luck and be safe.
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