Hey Everybody my name is Tony im from Manitoba, Canada. Thanks to everybody for help in advance! As you know by now I am new to bowhunting, I have hunted deer for a few years religiously during rifle season and have found my lifelong passion, looking to dig deeper into my dream sport I have decided that I want to pursue the whitetails with a bow from now on. I own a old compound junker i bought at a auction years back that i love to shoot and practice with, but i have decided I am going to buy a new hunting bow on payday (any input is welcome) but thats not what im here for. I know bowhunting is more than just going out with a bow and taking a deer, i know it takes alot of work - year round almost i imagine - could a few of you give me the bowhunting 101? being new to this style of hunting Im going to need some guidance. Can you help teach me how to Bowhunt. Thanks again everybody! Im looking forward to your responses!
Scouting is key. Scouting is key. Scouting is key. That cannot me over stated unlike with a rifle you've gotta have the deer much closer to your stand. Constantly being mobile and adapting to what the deer are doing at the given time of year are both extremely important factors.
Welcome Tony to Bowhunting.com's Forum (and the great sport of hunting with archery equipment only). I too only archery hunt... and it's awesome. Re: purchasing a bow... forget the hype between name brands - try out as many as possible, then get the one that 'feel's right' to you (you'll KNOW which one it is after trying 5 or 10 different ones). Don't get one that has a draw weight you find difficult to pull. Go to a BOW SHOP to do business (not a big-box store) - it pays dividends. You can learn a TON of information there and you may even meet a mentor and hunting companion. Practice, Practice, Practice in addition to Scouting... that's my 2 cents.
Trail Cameras Will save you a ton on gas and time afield. This is probably the most benifit to any thing I can offer. That is only if you don't have the time to spend in the bush. Check cameras for feild entry trails and bedding trails. They'll have other's also, but these are the main one's. This will determine where to set your stand. This allows you to keep out of the bush, not disturbing the deer. Keeping your scent out of the bush is huge as the deer will pattern you before you know it. Good luck this year,hope to see your picture up on the boards this fall with a huge grin on your face after arrowing, any deer. Remember,if it's not enjoyable then don't do it. That 1st close encounter will have you sidelined as a bowhunter for the rest of your willing life ! Rocky
