Bow hunting is an age-long tradition that dates as far back as the primitive times. Even in its modern form, this sports activity still requires plenty of preparation, planning, and skills. Here are some tips for increasing your chances of success at bow hunting.

Pre-season Scouting

Bow hunting requires a lot of preparation. You need to scout - that is, looking tracks, deer trails, old rubs, and beds that will tell you where the bucks will likely be this season - during the previous season and complete the procedure by midsummer. This is because animal tracks are much easier before the rut begins. Bucks are creatures of habit so you won’t likely encounter new trails come hunting season. Use binoculars or other optical tools to look for patterns.

Tree Stand Location

A tree stand is a platform used for getting off the ground and improving your vantage point. When using a stand site, you should bear three things in mind.

One is the thermal current of the day and how it works with the prevailing wind. Warm air has an upward movement, while cool air moves downhill. Ideally, the stand should be set 30 to 40 yards downwind from the spot as bucks scan an area with their nose from a distance. When positioning your stand, also keep in mind if it’s a morning or an evening hunt.

Another consideration to take is your maximum bow range. For most, the range is 20 yards.

Understanding Deer Territory

Knowing every inch of the forest you are hunting will guide you in finding the spots frequented by bucks during a certain time of the day. This involves observing and keeping mental note of deer behavior and signs every hunting season. The next season, you’ll become better at finding deer.

Scent Control

Bucks have a strong sense of smell; they can detect human presence based on scent. Use cover scents on your boots such as urine or raccoon urine, earth scent on clothes, and skunk scent on the stand.

Hunt Light

When hunting or stalking, you want to be able to move around as lithely as you can. You can’t do that when you’re weighed down by your gear. Pack lightly – bring only the most essential items.

Log Your Hunting Activities

Bow hunting is a continuous learning process. By keeping a record of your hunting activities, you will become more aware of the things that lead to the best results. Note items like wind speed, wind direction, stand location, time of the day, etc. By comparing results in your database, you will become more adept at bow hunting.

Source: www.americanhunter.org