51 bah jul aug14 by Design2Pro

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LEGENDARY SECRETS FOR BIG BUCKS!

MAKE OR BREAK ELK TACTICS

LONG-RANGE PRECISION Extreme Downrange Accuracy

STALKING PRONGHORNS 7 TIPS TO DO IT RIGHT

STEPS FOR TROPHY MULE DEER WHEN & WHEN NOT TO SHOOT

BOW REPORT Smooth & Fast Hoyt Spyder Carbon 30

JUL/AUG 2014 • VOLUME 52, NO.4 • $4.99 U.S. DISPLAY UNTIL: 7/29/14 • BOWANDARROWHUNTING.COM

09281 03123

Engaged Media By Beckett

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{Contents} VOL. 52 NO. 4 • JULY/AUGUST 2014

HOW-TOs 22} Prairie-Goat Stalker Sneaking up on a sharp-eyed pronghorn in wide-open country is no small feat, but it can be done. Here's how to do it right.

bowandarrowhunting.com

ADVENTURE

SPECIAL

72} Elk of the Northwest

40} An Outfitter’s Passion

This bowhunter heads to the dense woods of northern Oregon in pursuit of America's largest-bodied elk.

When it comes to hunting big whitetails, few have the drive and knowledge of Wisconsinbased outfitter Tom Indrebo.

By Roy K. Keefer

By Jeff Stonehouse

60} Killer Sights & Arrow Rests

By Brandon Ray

34} Strategies for Elk Here are five areas that can make or break your next hunt.

TECHNICAL

By Jason Stafford

28} Long-Range Proficiency—Part 2

40} Making the Shot Heed this advice for the most ethical and successful outcome during your next shooting encounter.

Uncovering the most important fundamentals for downrange accuracy. By Joe Bell

By Dana R. Rogers

Today's add-ons keep getting better and better, thanks to advances in materials, craftsmanship and design. By Brian Strickland

68} Maryland Monster Who said giant bucks and public land don't mix? Well, on this special October day they sure did. By Jason Lahti

54} Mule Deer Plans Bagging a high-mountain buck requires stealth and determination, but more than anything, careful planning. By Brian Strickland

Bow & Arrow Hunting (ISSN 0894-7856), Volume 52, Number 4 is published 6 times per year in Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sep/Oct, and Nov/Dec by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Bow & Arrow Hunting c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Bow & Arrow Hunting c/o Pitney Bowes, Inc., PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001. © 2014 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014 2014

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One Moment. One Choice.

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JULY/AUGUST 2014 Volume 52 • Number 4

{Contents} bowandarrowhunting.com

VOL. 52 NO. 4 • JULY/AUGUST 2014

EDITORIAL Group Editor: Doug Jeffrey Editor: Joe Bell Managing Editors: Breanna Armstrong, Bethany Miller Design by: Design2pro.com Art Director: Michael Kurov Deer Editor: Chuck Adams

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Steve Bartylla, Denny Sturgis, Jr., Judd Cooney, Myles Keller, Ted Nugent, Lisa Price, Tim Strickland, Randy Templeton, Joe Blake

ADVERTISING Gabe Frimmel - Ad Sales Director (714) 200-1930 - GFrimmel@Beckett.com Casey Clifford - Senior Account Executive (717) 896-8956 Mark Pack - Senior Account Executive (714) 200-1939 Gennifer Merriday - Ad Traffic Coordinator

ON THE COVER:

The moment of truth... it's what we all prepare so hard for. We spend countless hours fine tuning our bow setups, our shooting form and our hunting techniques... waiting for that one perfect shot scenario. However, does a perfect shot really exist? Regular Bow & Arrow Hunting contributor Dana Rogers (see page 46) explores this question by illustrating what can go wrong in those final seconds leading up to a shot.

DIRECT MARKETING GROUP John Bartulin - (866) 866-5146 ext. 2746 Paul Caca - (866) 866-5146 ext. 4961 Ryan Lauro - (866) 866-5146 ext. 2756 Mary Ann Jaca - (866) 866-5146 ext 2716

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EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 Ph: (800) 332-3330 Fax: (800) 249-7761 www.bowandarrowhunting.com www.facebook.com/bowandarrowmagazine www.facebook.com/eembybeckett

Also, back again is "LongRange Proficiency—Part 2." Editor Joe Bell once again interviews some of the top shooters in the country, exploring the necessary details to be deadly downrange.

Plus, for you whitetail fanatics, don't miss out on Jeff Stonehouse's story (page 40) featuring wellknown whitetail guide and outfitter Tom Indrebo, of Bluff Country Outfitters. This living whitetail legend tells us his secrets behind tracking down big bucks and creating the ultimate ambush plan.

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Columns 18 Adams on Deer

BACK ISSUES www.engagedmediamags.com BOOKS, MERCHANDISE, REPRINTS (239) 280-2380

Why I Bowhunt Deer By Chuck Adams

20 Bow Report Hoyt Carbon Spyder 30 By Joe Bell

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As always, please send your comments, hunting photos or stories to: editorial@bowandarrowhunting.com. Regular mail: Bow & Arrow Hunting, Attn: “Reader Success,” 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. We’d love to hear from you!

76 Stickbows Bowhunting Rabbits By Denny Sturgis, Jr.

82 Tech Tips Skinny Carbon By BAH Staff

BECKETT MEDIA, LLC Nick Singh: Executive Director Erin Masercola: Business Unit Editorial Director This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy. GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2

Departments 8 10 12 14

From The Editor Mail Pouch Sneak Peek Questions & Answers

Beyond this, there's a multitude of great articles in this issue, from adventure stories, to product reviews, to how-tos, it's all right here at Bow & Arrow Hunting.

Deer cover photo by www.donaldmjones.com

Thanks for making Bow & Arrow Hunting your favorite go-to bowhunting source! Be sure to visit us on Facebook.com and bowandarrowhunting. wordpress.com

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{EDITOR} from the

SHARING THOUGHT, INSIGHT, AND HARD-CORE ADVENTURE WITH TODAY’S SERIOUS BOWHUNTING ENTHUSIAST…

The Leopold

Legacy This past winter, I received a ballot from the Archery Hall of Fame Organization. It was for an upcoming election for the class of 2013. As an industry person, I have the honor and privilege to vote and participate in these annual appointments. Of course, I find this task not only gratifying but educational, too, considering all prospective inductees have made some sort of significant and historical impact on archery and bowhunting, and I get to learn about these accomplishments in detail. One of the names on this list was Aldo Leopold, a noted naturalist, forester, wildlife manager, and longtime bowhunter. For most of my tenure as a hunter, sadly, I knew little about Leopold. However, last year, while performing article research on President Theodore Roosevelt, I ran into Leopold’s name, time and again. His contributions to conservation and managing wildlife were exemplary and noteworthy. His thinking was beyond its time, I found. The more I learned about Leopold, the more I connected with him on so many levels. Here are three attributes that impress me the most about this man, who held our land, our animals, and our sport in very high moral regard.

Land as a Friend Leopold was highly intelligent, practical and perceptive. As a visionary, he liked to perceive the big picture and the long-term impacts man could have on his environment and the wild animals living within it. Basically, Leopold believed heavily in using the land for farming, for ranching and grazing, and for hunting and recreation. However, he did not believe in over-use and long-term destruction. He believed in true sustainment, which could only come through treating the land and nature as a community that we are innately a part of. “Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land,” wrote Leopold. “By land is meant all of the things on, over, or in the earth. Harmony with the land is like harmony with a friend; you cannot cherish his right hand and chop off his left. That is to say, you cannot love game and hate predators; you cannot conserve the waters and waste the ranges; you cannot build the forest and mine the farm. The land is one organism.”

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Leopold thought that if we are to treat the land properly, that we need to understand it intimately, to know how it works as a whole. Otherwise, it would be difficult to sustain it and to reap any of its ongoing economic benefits.

Embraced Wilderness Hired on by the US Forest Service straight out of Yale University Forestry School, Leopold was assigned to the forest regions of Arizona and New Mexico, which weren’t actually states yet, only territories. He was to explore and map the regions, as well as to manage the growing populations of predators in the area. This meant traveling across harsh, untamed, southwestern backcountry while on foot and horseback. Anyone that could do such a thing, as a job, in the unforgiving southwestern mountains, was certainly tougher than most. He was part scholar and part cowboy, a quality of his, also, hard not to commend. During these backcountry experiences, an indelible mark was left on Leopold. He had concern for less wild space and less wild ecosystems. This prompted him to initiate many monumental actions in how we manage our natural resources today. He wrote the first comprehensive management plan for the Grand Canyon, the first Forest Service game and fish handbook, and the first proposal to delegate a large chunk of forest in New Mexico as “wilderness,” which eventually led to the development of the Gila National Wilderness. Today, thousands of hikers, backpackers, anglers and hunters get to enjoy this wild and undefiled region of New Mexico, rich in habitat diversity and game, all thanks to the vision, forethought and initiative of Leopold. Of course, this undertaking led to other designated wilderness areas in our country. As a wilderness hunter and explorer myself, I cannot thank him enough for that.

Lover of the Hunt Perhaps my favorite quality of Leopold was his view of hunting. He became a Boone & Crockett Club member in 1923, and he wrote a book called “Game Management,” a first of its kind that led to a new scientific approach to managing our wildlife and their habitats. Today, Leopold’s ideas serve as the backbone of

our state’s wildlife biology programs, once again, highlighting his tremendous intelligence and vision for the future. Beyond all this, Leopold was a lover of proper sportsmanship. He began hunting at a very early age, under the wing of his father. He learned to value fair-chase hunting, admiring the utter skill that goes into pursuing game, particularly with basic archery equipment. He liked to think of hunting as honing one’s ability to become a better woodsman, marksman, and to know the natural world better. He did not believe in the overuse of hunting “aids” that often whittled down on these critical aspects of being a real predator of the land. Most importantly, Leopold found time to influence other hunters and archers about his beliefs (through his eloquent writing ability) and to also help popularize archery and bowhunting during the 1920s, 30s and 40s. He actually helped launch the first Wisconsin archery-only hunting season in 1934. In my mind, few people have done more good for the betterment of our wild landscapes and wildlife than Leopold. It was of no surprise that my vote, along with others, put his man right where he belongs... within the ranks of the prestigious Archery Hall of Fame Membership.

JOE BELL jbell@beckett.com

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NEWS&LETTERS

{MAIL POUCH} 50 YEARS OF BOWHUNTING AUTHORITY • BOWANDARROWHUNTING.COM

Tom Nelson

POPE AND YOUNG ANNOUNCES ELECTION RESULTS

To the Editor... Hey Joe. Great job on your “Ridgeline Mulies” story in the March/April 2014 issue. I really enjoyed how you stepped us through the hunt, making us feel like we were there. I also like all the other western-related articles and technical stuff. Your magazine is my go-to source number-one. Keep up the great work! R.S., via email Joe, outstanding issue (March/April 2014). I particularly enjoyed the article titled, “Bear’s Best Bowhunt,” by Wayne van Zwoll. Even after all these years, I can never get enough of Fred. What a rush he must have felt to take down all those big critters with nothing but a stick. Awesome. T.B., via email Hi Joe. I really liked your article on long-range shooting (May/June 14 issue). The content was spot on, as usual, and the tips on adjusting the peep aperture for 70 to 80 yards was very helpful. Thanks for writing that story. I can’t wait for part 2 now. E.Y., via email Joe, your article on long-range shooting is just what I was looking for. There were lots of great tips in there, stuff you would only hear about in tight archery circles. Thanks for making us privy to all of it. M.S., via email

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

The Pope and Young Club is proud to announce the results of the 2014 Board of Directors election. On Sunday, March 2nd, ballots were counted by membervolunteer election judges. The results are the following: Jim Willems (New Mexico)—President Tom Nelson (Michigan)—1st Vice President John Gardner (Colorado)—2nd Vice President Todd Bricket (Colorado)—Director Doug Clayton (Iowa)—Director “I am deeply honored to serve as president of the Pope and Young Club,” says President-Elect Jim Willems. “As a young bowhunter who idolized Jim Dougherty and Fred Asbell, I joined the club to be part of the history and tradition they represented. I will do all I can to maintain and honor that heritage. Bowhunters today hunt with everything from self bows and flint, to the latest compound with expandables. Ever since they started gluing fiberglass to wood bows, we have had to revise our idea of what ‘bowhunting’ is and I think we can find a way to embrace the future, while honoring the past.” “This organization has a tremendous 53-year track record of successful advocacy for bowhunting, for bowhunting’s values and for the

principles of fair chase,” says Kevin Hisey, Executive Secretary for the Pope and Young Club. “We look forward to continuing that advocacy and the programs utilized to carry out that mission, while exploring new avenues to further that same cause.” “It is a huge honor to serve as the Pope and Young Club’s 1st V.P.,” says Tom Nelson. “I look forward to building on the great work that the Pope and Young Club has done throughout the years. From our conservation efforts to our records program, the Pope and Young Club is the leader in protecting and defending our bowhunting heritage.” Established in 1961, the Pope and Young Club is a non-profit North American conservation and bowhunting organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of our bowhunting heritage, hunting ethics and wildlife conservation. Visit www.pope-young.org Jim Willems

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ERS

NEWS&LETTERS

$1.1 BILLION TO STATE WILDLIFE AGENCIES FROM EXCISE TAXES ON HUNTERS, ANGLERS, BOATERS Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell announced today that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will distribute nearly $1.1 billion in excise tax revenues paid by sportsmen and sportswomen to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies to fund fish and wildlife conservation and recreation projects across the nation. A state-by-state table is included in this release. “People who enjoy hunting, fishing, boating and recreational shooting provide a strong foundation for conservation funding in this country,” Jewell said. “The taxes they pay on equipment and boating fuel support critical fish and wildlife management and conservation efforts, create access for recreational boating, and underpin education programs that help get kids outdoors.” The Service apportions the funds to all 50 states and territories through the PittmanRobertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration programs. Revenues come from excise taxes generated by the sale of sporting firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, fishing equipment and tackle, and electric outboard motors. Recreational boaters also contribute to the program through fuel taxes on motorboats and small engines. “Anyone who enjoys our nation’s outdoor heritage should thank hunters, anglers, recreational boaters and target shooters,” said Dan Ashe, director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, these individuals have created a 75-year legacy for conservation of critical wildlife habitat

and improved access to the outdoors for everyone.” The total distributions this year are $238.4 million higher than last year because of the inclusion of funds that were not distributed last year because of the government sequester and an increase in excise tax receipts from sales of firearms and ammunition in the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund. The Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Program apportionment for 2014 totals a record $760.9 million, which includes $20 million sequestered from fiscal year (FY) 2013 but subsequently returned to the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund. The Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Program apportionment for 2014 totals $325.7 million, which includes $18.5 million that was sequestered from FY 2013 but subsequently returned to the Sport

Fish Restoration Trust Fund. The FY 2014 Sport Fish Restoration apportionment is $34.1 million lower than FY 2013 due to lower domestic fishing equipment excise tax receipts. The Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program reimburses up to 75 percent of the cost of each eligible project, while state fish and wildlife agencies contribute a minimum of 25 percent, generally using hunting and fishing license revenues as the required non-federal match. Funding is paid by manufacturers, producers and importers and is distributed by the Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program to each state and territory. For information on funding for each state, click here. The Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs have gener-

ated a total of more than $15 billion since their inception—in 1937 in the case of the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Program and 1950 for the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Program—to conserve fish and wildlife resources. The recipient fish and wildlife agencies have matched these program funds with more than $5 billion. This funding is critical to sustaining healthy fish and wildlife populations and providing opportunities for all to connect with nature. Please visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program website at wsfrprograms.fws.gov for more information on the goals and accomplishments of these programs and for individual state, commonwealth, and territorial funding allocations.

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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NEW PRODUCTS

{SNEAK PEEK} 50 YEARS OF BOWHUNTING AUTHORITY • BOWANDARROWHUNTING.COM

Relentlessly Smooth

Stylish Looks

Mathews’ Monster Chill R bow is the epitome of smooth. Centered on the revolutionary AVS DYAD cam system, this bow offers an unbelievably smooth drawing cycle and emits super-low levels of shot vibration. Plus, it’s super fast, at 342 feet per second IBO speed. You have to experience it to believe it. Best of all, the Chill R comes in a lightweight, compact package, perfect for tight spots in a treestand, ground blind or while crouched beneath a clump of brush waiting out a shot. Specs include 33-inch axle length, brace height 6 1/8 inches, 3.95-pound physical weight, and draw lengths 23 to 30 inches (1/2-inch sizes available). The Chill R comes in Lost Camo, black, black tactical, desert tactical and blue ice. $999

There’s nothing like a clean, well-mounted set of deer antlers. And that’s exactly what you get using the new SkullHooker Bone Bracket. This mounting system is perfect for that ol’ set of horns laying in the garage. Simply trim up the skull plate, mount as directed, and just like that you have a beautiful, functional wall mount that is easy to adjust and tweak for optimum viewing angle and display—nothing like the standard wood-plaque mounts you’ve seen. The unit has three main components: the wall plate, swing arm, and mounting base. $19.99.

Visit www.mathewsinc.com

Tree-Stand Superior

Meaner, Leaner Phantom Muzzy’s new Phantom SC is designed for bowhunters wanting a super-accurate, supertough, cutting-edge broadhead that looks just like the original, legendary Phantom broadhead, but only in a shorter, more aerodynamically designed package. This broadhead features a solidsteel ferrule, a 1 1/8-inch cutting diameter and an ultra-compact blade design that starts working the instant it makes contact. The bleeder blade follows with a secondary cut, making blood trails short and heavy with a well-placed hit. It comes in either 100- or 125-grain versions. $39.99 for a 3-pack. Visit www.muzzy.com

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Visit www.skullhooker.com

Most daypacks on the market are great for generaluse, on-the-ground hunting, but Sitka’s Tool Bucket pack was tailor-made for the whitetail-treestand hunter. It has all the right pockets in all the right areas, and since it’s built on a rigid frame, it has the stoutness to carry your treestand wherever you want to go. The main compartment even detaches, doubling its versatility. It simply does whatever you want it to do. It’s even designed to carry your bow, keeping your hands free when needed. Other features include quiver-pocket extension, secure tree-attachment straps, Gore Optifade Elevated Forest camouflage concealment, and a 1,700-cubic-inch carrying capacity. Also available is the Tool Box, which is a small-volume messenger bag intended for the whitetail specialist that’s only out for the morning or evening hunt. Multiple built-in straps and loops are strategically located to secure this pack to a tree without hooks or screws. Once secured, imagine a shaving kit that opens up to offer easy access to all the necessities and a safe place to easily stow layers that need to come on or off with changing conditions. Visit www.sitkagear.com

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NEW PRODUCTS

{SNEAK PEEK} 50 YEARS OF BOWHUNTING AUTHORITY • BOWANDARROWHUNTING.COM

A Real Trophy Rinehart’s new Booner Buck 3D target is a replica of a massive, trophy-size buck, with a fullsimulated weight of 200 pounds. It’s just what you need to strengthen those shooting nerves for the moment of truth, helping to relieve you of any buck-fever effects. The target uses Rinehart’s legendary “self-healing” foam for maximum durability. The signature series foam insert and replaceable core is more than capable of stopping all arrows in their tracks. Also, the foam’s incredible easy-arrow removal properties makes tugging and pulling with all your strength a thing of the past. The Booner buck stands at 58 inches tall, 45 inches long and 12 inches wide. $299.

Speed & Toughness In One Based on Gold Tip’s proven Velocity XT Series arrow, the new Team Primos arrow is made of 100-percent carbon construction and comes with a straightness tolerance of plus/minus .003-inch and a weight tolerance of plus/minus 2 grains. It’s easily one of the toughest, most accurate arrows on the market. It comes with a black finish and a customized Team Primos wrap emblazed with the signature “Speak the Language” slogan. Each arrow is outfitted with 2-inch VaneTec HP vanes and Accu-Lite inserts and nocks. Available in spine sizes of 400, 340 and 300, it sells for $79.99 for 1/2 dozen, or $124.99 for one dozen. Visit www.goldtip.com

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Guide Approved Crispi’s new Guide GTX is capable of handling the toughest mountain terrain a hunter can dish out. Best yet, the Guide is lighter than similarly-styled boots, but with more supportive features that you can feel, mile after mile, mountain after mountain. These 9-inch upper boots are also fully waterproof and breathable. Like all Crispi models, the Guide GTX is loaded with innovative, industry-first technology. Three important features are called Crispi’s ankle-bone support system (increasing support without weight), Dual-Tech Lining (for skin moisture absorption and comfort), and the unique Crossbow Frame (for improved shock-absorption). It all adds up to one killer wilderness boot. It is designed and made in Italy. $479 Visit www.crispiusa.com

Grows With You Quest’s new Radical bow is truly a bow that grows with you. Designed specifically for teenage youths that will grow periodically over the years, the Radical allows for an unbelievable draw-length range of 17.5 to 30 inches, as well as a draw weight range of 15 to 70 pounds. The bow is also super lightweight at only 3.25 pounds, which is perfect for small, entry-level shooters of all kinds. The bow’s specs include IBO speed of 295 fps, 29.25-inch axle length, and 7.125-inch brace height. It comes in Realtree AP or AP Purple. Cost is $349, bow only, or $429 for the Designed-to-Hunt package. Visit www.questbowhunting.com

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

{

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QUESTIONS &ANSWERS} INSIGHTS

INSIGHTS

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eders.com Visit www.eders.com for great deals on all of today’s top bowhunting gear.

INSIGHTS

Stabilizers for Hunting Hi Joe. I’m seeing more and more hunting bows that have side-bar type stabilizers on them, especially among western setups. Have you experimented with these? I realize this “system” has been proven on target bows, with much larger-length stabilizer stems, but does this have any benefit for a hunting setup where the stabilizer and side-bar unit is much shorter? Thanks.

J.W., via email I have some experience with this sort of stabilizer system, such as the AAE Western Hunter. Yes, there’s no doubt, it makes the bow balance and aim more rock-solid. It also lessens shooting torque– increasing accuracy, especially with broadheads and when shooting long distances. However, I find this type of setup a bit too cumbersome for my style of hunting. I usually hunt and carry my bow a whole lot more than I shoot it in the field. For this reason, I prefer a traditional arrangement in favor of being more streamlined during a stalk/ambush. I always say, shooting gear is subjective … what works for one may not work for another. So give it a try at a pro shop. I should add, the AAE Western Hunter system is very lightweight, so it’s not really a weight thing—just more of a bulky thing. Hope this helps.—JOE BELL

Best Arrow for Elk Hey Joe. First of all, I love the magazine! My tech question for you is how many grains of total arrow weight (including the broadhead) do you recommend for elk hunting? I’m shooting a Prime Alloy bow, 26-inch draw length and I use a 125grain QAD Exodus broadhead. Thanks.

Ronnie Miller, via email Hi Ronnie. I typically recommend 390 to 400 grains or more, depending on your bow’s energy output. With short draws and lower draw weights, I would not go below say 410 grains, but again it depends on arrow energy and style of broadhead. The 125-grain Exodus is an excellent, deeppenetrating design, so I think you’re in great shape there. —JOE BELL

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Super lightweight arrows are a mistake for bowhunting elk, which are large, tough animals. For deeper penetration, go with a heavier arrows. A good benchmark is a 400-grain or heavier arrow using standard maleadult bow setups.

INSIGHTS

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Fixed Sight or Moveable? Hi Joe. I’m in the midst of looking at a new Montana Black Gold sight for my bow. I have heard the benefits of the movable pins, with say three fixed and one left over at the bottom to move via the vertical bar and wheel. However, I’ve always used fixed pins with different sizes (.019 and.010) and never worried about a movable apparatus. On some of the spot-and-stalk hunts I’ve done, it seems the motion of ranging and crawling are all that I’m afforded before taking the shot. Turning the wheel on these sights seems like more time and motion—but maybe it’s between my ears? I don’t know anybody who has done more spotand-stalk hunting than you, so I was curious as to your opinion on these types of sights versus a 5-pin fixed sight per se? I’d appreciate your feedback.

E.Y., via email

There are pros and cons to everything. If you do a lot of long-distance practice shooting, or want to be ready to take a very long follow-up shot, then a moveable pin system is probably best, as it allows for precise aiming (no slight hold over/under) and fewer pins to mess you up. The downside is more complexity, moving parts and more chance of mechanical failure. Some moveable sights are too flimsy. However, in recent years, they’ve been getting better. The Custom Bow Equipment Tek-Hybrid and SpotHogg Hogg Father are two solid models. The Black Gold I haven’t tried but I’ve been told that it’s pretty solid. The first thing I do when considering a sight for hunting is to grab hold of the housing and see if it “flexes” a bit. If it does, it’s too flimsy for real, crawl-through-the-brush hunting. Bottom line is this: use what you have confidence in. In years past, I just haven’t been comfortable enough backpacking and strapping the bow to my pack with a moveable-pin sight. I’ve seen too many of them fail. After all, what good is precision and long-range capability if the sight malfunctions and ruins a basic 30yard shot? All that being said, I may end up backpack hunting with the CBE (with 5 fixed pins) in upcoming years—still not sure. For now, I’m happy with a fixed sight for 90-percent of my hunting. —JOE BELL

Micro-Adjusting Peep Sight

top or bottom? Also, do you ever “walk” the peep or simply do 1/2-turn twists until you get the alignment correct? Thanks. Eyad, via email

I turn the string in full or 1/2-turn twists until it’s right. I usually twist from the bottom because it’s easiest. For the most part, the peep is 1/8 to 1/4-turn

twisted to the right at brace, then it rotates dead center at full draw. Of course, this is when the string is right twisted during assembly/installation. By “walk” do you mean moving it up or down to get the height right? If so, then yes I do but only a small amount. Otherwise, I’ll compress the bow in the press and then readjust the peep sight. Otherwise, you could damage the string fibers by forcing it up or down. —JOE BELL

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Hi Joe. I was curious as to your thoughts on adjusting the peep when it doesn’t rotate just right at full draw. Do you twist the string from the

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{QUESTIONS &ANSWERS} Whether or not you should put in each season depends on what you want out of a hunt and the fact that you must pay $150 for the license each fall in order to build points. For me, I like Nevada because the mountains are unique, beautiful and very challenging to hunt—just the adventure I’m looking for— and I really like the earlier bow season. I buy the license and put in every year because of this. And, of course, there is always a good chance for a big buck—but not always. The downside is that tags are hard to draw in low-hunter pressure areas. The Rubies are an easy draw and provide gorgeous scenery, but they have increased the tag quota for these units, and I hear hunter pressure is intense. Colorado is a must apply state since you don’t have to buy a license, and the deer hunting is very good in nearly all regions. Utah would be excellent depending on unit and draw odds. Hopefully that helps. —JOE BELL

LEFT: Bowhunters serious about long-range accuracy prefer a bowsight with a moving aperture. This way they can dial in the sight pin for the exact shooting distance, without the hassles of holding the sight a little over or under to compensate for an odd-range target. RIGHT: Adjusting your peep sight for proper rotation at full draw can be a hassle. The only real way to do it is to twist the string in one-half-turn increments until it rotates perfectly center.

Reader’s Reply:

Thanks, Joe. Mine is also turned to the right at brace and then squares up perfect at full draw. I have tried to get it straight at brace years ago but it always turned too far to the left once at full draw. So now I only care about what it’s like at full draw, obviously. “Walking” I have always heard referred to when one takes one strand from one side and moves to the left, and one from the left and move to the right, etc. I guess it seems to help fine tune the peep when even 1/2 twists are too much. I have never had much luck with it, though.

Joe Bell’s Response: No, I don’t mess with “walking” in that regard. I’ve done it a couple times but it made a mess of my string fibers and was difficult once the peep was locked in tight with serving. Nowadays, I use Winner’s Choice strings,

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Arrow Gripper for Hip Quiver

Hi Joe. Is there a good hip quiver that carries Easton Slim Shafts/FMJs with a good fit? I use an older Adams Arrow Holster that I really like but they don’t fit. I was using my XX78s for years but have switched to the Slim shafts this year. Is there an arrow holder that I can put on the Adams quiver that would hold the arrows in place? I know the Tarantula quiver works well and I have looked at a few hand-made quivers out here in Montana that I really like too. Thoughts?

Nevada is a special place but it is a bit more arid compared to Colorado and Utah, so deer are usually in lesser supply, with bucks scattered more depending on terrain.

Hi Scott. The solution is to find some older Sagittarius “small carbon” or “small aluminum” arrow grippers. These might be hard to find nowadays. Some of the older Martin grippers would work as well. With my hip quiver, I’ve used the “small aluminum” Sagittarius grippers with much success. Keep looking on eBay and other places until you find some. I’ll keep my eye out for you as well. If not, I’ll dig through my boxes and maybe I can find something that will work for you. Either way, stay in touch.—JOE BELL

which are split perfectly during assembly. So it’s a matter of twisting/untwisting a few times to get it right.

Bowhunting Mule Deer Hi Joe. I know you have hunted Nevada mule deer in the past and are more than likely applying again this year. I wanted to know if you feel it’s worth applying for every year compared to states like Colorado and Utah, which I think might be a little better. I know it can be a tough place to hunt, but I see some big bucks coming from this state. I’d appreciate your input. B.S., via email

Scott Myers, via email

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ADAMS

BY CHUCK ADAMS

DEER

Why I Bowhunt Deer This bowhunter pursues deer for many reasons, but the allure of the chase and being in wild country are among the strongest points.

I get seriously tired of hearing deer hunters make lame excuses about why they pursue animals. In our metropolitan, politically correct society, it is all too easy for a bowhunter to go on the defensive when confronted with anti-hunting pressure. We are right, and they are wrong. Why act apologetic for what you do? There are two common reasons deer archers give for chasing bucks. First, they point out that deer need to be “managed” in our modern world. Without time-tested game department procedures, whitetails and other types of antlered game can overpopulate and then die off due to starvation, disease, and impact by speeding automobiles. Second, hunters often say that they go after deer for the meat. They sometimes add that sportsmen’s groups donate many tons of venison to charity every year. With all due respect, these arguments might sound good but fall short of why most of us really go after deer. Sure, it is great to manage the resource. And sure, I love well-cared-for deer steaks, roasts, and burger as much as the next guy. But these are nifty fringe benefits for most bowhunters, and we might as well be honest about why we really hunt. Antihunters will not accept any ar-

Chuck's recent California blacktail was not huge but still a trophy in that hard-hunted state. Hunting familiar ground and the hope of bagging a monster are two reasons the author loves bowhunting deer.

bowhunting nearly half a century ago–the habitat of California blacktail deer. This was where the famous Indian Ishi bowhunted deer before me, and where he taught Saxton Pope the fine points of shooting a bow-andarrow. I had already bagged my annual California blacktail—a fat 2x2 with nut-brown antlers. But I simply could not get enough of my traditional, historic bowhunting ground. So I was out again to enjoy the scenery.

RIGHT: Love of bowhunting terrain and scenery is special to the author. California's rugged, rock-rimmed Ishi Country represents an enjoyable and traditional getaway for Chuck.

gument for what we do, so we might as well GET REAL.

Wild Country and Big Bucks Not long ago, I sat on a lava rim overlooking a steep, brush-choked canyon. The

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

pungent odor of damp dirt and pine needles filled the air, and a hazy sun shot gorgeous darts of orange downward past billowing clouds. A tingle of pure pleasure rippled down my spine. This was the country where I started

Something flickered along an oak-dotted ridge nearby, and out stepped a huge 5x5 blacktail. All I could do was grab my camera and snap a few quick zoom photos before the monarch melted out of sight. I

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have dreamed about such bucks since I was a little kid, and I will continue to dream as long as I can put one foot in front of the other. Maybe next year, I will still have a deer tag in my pocket when the monster shows up! What I recently experienced on that rocky ledge in California were two of the strongest reasons why I bowhunt deer. For one thing, I enjoy all wild places– particularly places I have gotten to know over the years. California’s Ishi Country is one such setting. Another reason I bowhunt is the thrill of the chase—the chance to see and perhaps bag a cagey, big-racked buck. More than actually killing a deer, I enjoy the process of getting there. From dreaming of big bucks in the off-season to hiking or sitting in wait during the actual hunt, I absolutely love every step along the way.

Born to Hunt One thing I rarely hear about from bowhunters is their instinct to hunt. All predators have a deep-seated, genetic drive to pursue other animals. Ironically, the anti-hunters absolutely adore wolves, bears, mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, and other creatures that kill and eat to survive. All those sharp-toothed animals have eyes set to the front of their heads to easily spot game and judge distance. All have lightning reflexes to pounce and bring down their prey. As a human hunter, I have these same traits that are so admired by the hunter-haters. I also have the same ingrained, genetic drive to pursue and take down game. How dare the citybound, out-of-touch “Bambi lovers” judge me for what I do as naturally as any wolf or grizzly bear? The love of archery is another reason many of us chase deer with “stick and string.” Native Americans like Ishi killed deer with arrows for hundreds or thousands of years, depending on the region where they lived. Before that, all ancestors of Indians dropped animals with hand-thrown spears or atlatl-thrown darts. A reverence for projectile sports is common with serious hunters–an inbred love for watching a sharp-tipped spear, dart, or arrow arch toward a target and hit it dead-center.

I do not bowhunt deer specifically to put meat in the freezer. Using a gun would be easier and more efficient. But venison is certainly great food. It’s healthier than domestic red meat, less fattening, and impossible to beat for taste when properly prepared. I eat the meat from deer, elk, and other antlered game at least three times per week, and my taste buds would be lost without it. Meat is one great fringe benefit to a successful deer hunt. But mostly I bowhunt deer for other reasons. I’m a natural predator, and I’m not about to deny my instinct to satisfy some easy-chair liberal who would not know a buck from a bean sprout. I love the habitat where deer live, because I’m a natural part of it. I love the anticipation and thrill of the bowhunt, especially when I’m after big, hunter-wise bucks that make me look like a fool most of the time. I also love shooting a bow like hunters have done since prehistory. I make no apology for bowhunting deer. It is as natural as breathing, eating, and sleeping—something I was designed by nature to do and love!

BE HAPPY NEAR HOME Most archers I know dream about chasing deer out-of-state. I have had the good fortune to bowhunt and bag every variety of North American deer, from Arizona to Alaska and California to Connecticut. Every trip has been enjoyable, and I’ve had many great times with good friends along the way. That being said, I am the first to admit that nothing beats bowhunting close to home. You do not need a pile of cash or tons of vacation time to fully enjoy bowhunting deer. I have just as much fun chasing little 2x2 blacktails in my native state of California, or medium-sized whitetails near my current home in Wyoming. By all means bowhunt deer in lots of places if you can. But if you don’t have the time or money to visit far-away places, you should not worry. Take it from me. You will probably be just as happy chasing cagey bucks in your own backyard!—Chuck Adams —CHUCK ADAMS

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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HOYT

Carbon Spyder 30

ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT, FAST, AND INCREDIBLY SMOOTH TO DRAW AND SHOOT, IT'S THE PERFECT COMPACT-HUNTING BOW. By Joe

Bell

Specifications

Model: Carbon Spyder 30 Manufacturer: Hoyt USA, 593 N Wright Brothers Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84116; (801) 363-2990; www.hoyt.com Peak Draw weights: 30 to 80 pounds Draw lengths: 24-30 inches (in 1/2-inch increments) Axle-to-axle length: 30 inches Limbs: XTS Pro Arc Riser: Hollow-tubed carbon Grip: Removable wood Eccentrics: Z5 Cam & 1/2 System Brace Height: 6 3/4 inches (approx.) Mass Weight: 3.6 pounds Advertised IBO speed: 332 fps Suggested Retail: $1,499 Color: Realtree X-Tra, Realtree Max-1, Black-Out

Hoyt is one of those bow companies that likes to push the envelope in terms of technology and innovation. In 2010, they did just that by unveiling a unique bow called the Carbon Element. It was the industry’s first hollowtube carbon-riser hunting bow. Carbon isn’t cheap to manufacturer, so the Element came with a higher price tag compared to high-end aluminum bows on the market. But, Hoyt felt the inherent qualities of carbon were far too superior to ignore, in terms of reducing physical bow weight, post-shot vibration and noise. Carbon also has incredible strength-to-weight properties. All in all, Hoyt knew it was the technology every discriminating bowhunter was waiting for. So they went with it... in a powerful sort of way. Some doubted the cost and function of a carbon riser, but four years later, Hoyt’s carbon bows are selling as strong as ever. Bowhunters are falling in love with these one-of-a-kind shooters. They are warm to the touch, unbelievably lightweight, and uniquely “dull-sounding” during the shot report.

Carbon Made Better PERFORMANCE RATINGS True Speed: 281 fps; 27-inch draw length, 60 pounds draw weight; string loop. Arrow: Gold Tip Pro Hunter w/100-grain point, AAE Max Hunter vanes– total arrow weight 360 grains.

Once again pushing the envelope, Hoyt is coming on strong in 2014 with an all-new Carbon Spyder Bow Series, which is available in three different configurations. For this review, I’ll focus on the flagship model, the Carbon Spyder 30. The key behind this bow is the new Helical-Flex-Tuned hollowcarbon riser. Utilizing creative design methods and over 40 different carbon components, this riser is stiffer, stronger and even

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Hoyt’s new Carbon Spyder 30 was meticulously designed to be lighter, stronger, smoother, and more accurate than its predecessor. It’s loaded with great features, including the Z5 Cam & 1/2 System, which is geared for easy-shooting performance while still producing a powerful 332 fps IBO speed. It’s truly a must-see, mustshoot bow for 2014.

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smoother shooting compared to its predecessor. Of course, the stiffer the riser, the quieter, more-consistent it will shoot, since it minimizes “flex” that much more during the shot. “It’s built Hoyt tough, yet it maintains that ultralightweight feel you’d expect out of a true carbon construction,” said Kevin Wilkey, pro staff manager for Hoyt. “You have to witness this bow’s balance. It’s a must-see, mustshoot kind of a bow.”

Superior Horsepower The Carbon Spyder is equipped with a new “engine,” the all-new Z5 Cam & 1/2 System. “It was designed to be liquid smooth yet brutally fast,” Wilkey added. The cam was built to offer the perfect draw cycle while maintaining maximum speed performance. The result is a cam system that’s truly smooth, easy shooting and ideal for any type of archer, beginning to pro. The Z5 comes in three different cam sizes to optimize speed, smoothness and accuracy at various draw lengths. For example, on the Carbon Spyder 30, one cam size is available for 24 to 25.5-inch draw lengths, a second one for 26 to 28-inch lengths, and a third for 28 to 30-inch lengths. This feature requires more manufacturing design and cost, but according to Hoyt, it’s the only way to truly offer peak performance to all shooters, instead of optimizing performance at only the “mid-draw range” of a single cam size. The Z5 is a modular-based system, so it can be adjusted in draw length in 1/2-inch increments by using a different set of removable modules within a given cam size. This makes the system more versatile when switching release aids or mak-

Notable Highlights: Hoyt’s new Helical-FlexTuned carbon riser provides superior strength, toughness and low-shot vibration. The Perfect Balance Stabilization System promises a well-balanced, rock-solid feel, especially when adding a bow quiver. New Z5 Cam & 1/2 System is super-smooth and optimized for maximum performance and accuracy at every draw length. AirShox limb dampers are highly efficient and effective at reducing shot noise and vibration, all without reducing arrow speed.

ing small changes in shooting form that may alter your draw length somewhat.

Added Stealth Besides a shock-absorbing carbon riser, Hoyt gives this bow a long list of features that squelch noise and shot vibration even further. At the top of the list is the revolutionary AirShox Silencing System. This limb-dampening device was introduced on last year’s Hoyt bows, including the Carbon Element and Spyder Series. Again, many were skeptical of this device, but after a full year of in-field/on-tournament testing, the AirShox has proven itself to be highly effective at reducing bow noise, without altering natural limb function. The AirShox is made up of a three-legged elastomeric damper that is positioned above the limb on a solid aluminum bracket. Once the bow is drawn and fired, the limb

springs into the damper during the shooting process, effectively dampening its movement for a quieter, smoother shot feel. Other technologies Hoyt has added to maximize this bow’s quietness and smoothness include the StealthShot string dampener, ShockRod-riser mounted dampening components, and the patented SilentShelf arrow shelf.

Shooting the Bow Of course, technology and sales pitches only mean so much to a bowhunter. Shooting the bow is what really counts. I outfitted my Carbon Spyder 30 with an Arizona Archery Pro Drop arrow rest, Custom Bow Equipment Tek-Hybrid sight, and Doinker Stabilizer. I began shooting the bow almost daily, testing it side by side with some of my best shooting rigs. My thoughts are this: the Carbon Spyder was certainly impressive. It emits a dull, quiet shot, a certain tone you don’t hear in regular aluminum-riser bows. Also, it’s very enjoyable to draw, with a sweet, non-intimidating draw valley (just what I’m looking for in a serious hunting bow). The new Z5 Cam System doesn’t have any odd “bumps” in the cycle, either. I also like how this bow aims and balances. The slight offset stabilizer hole (3/4-inch away from center) really makes the bow feel that much better, especially when attaching a lightweight bow quiver to the side. Hoyt calls this their Perfect Balance Stabilization System. At first, the Carbon Spyder felt a little too light for me, but once I added a 10-inch stabilizer, bow sight, and lightweight quiver, it held super-solid, offering the type of steadiness I like on those longer, more challenging shots.

I also noticed how Hoyt embedded two aluminum receivers into the carbon riser for easy attachment of a twopiece quiver. This is an improvement over the original carbon risers. The bow’s grip is arguably one of the best on the market. I shot it with the smooth, narrow wood grip in place—and liked it very much that way. Then I shot it without the grip—and it felt even more precise and consistent. However, I could go either way, truthfully. It felt that good. Keep in mind, without the wood grip installed, your draw length and the bow’s brace height will increase by about 1/8-inch. Overall, the Carbon Spyder 30 is a highly impressive bow. It shoots and handles just like Hoyt promises. Best of all, it offers a unique feel, unlike any other bow I’ve shot before. It revolves around the bow’s post-shot delivery—it’s just too difficult to put into words. You’ll just have to try it, in person, during a test shot. It’s a great bow, offering a one-of-akind experience.

BOTTOM LINE: This bow is supersmooth, quiet and unbelievably lightweight. It just may knock your socks off. Give it a try!

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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Prairie-Goat

Stalker

SNEAKING UP ON A SHARP-EYED PRONGHORN IN WIDE-OPEN COUNTRY IS NO SMALL FEAT, BUT IT CAN BE DONE. HERE'S HOW TO DO IT RIGHT. By Brandon

Ray

he year was 2009. It was mid-August and hot as hell. The place: desert badlands of New Mexico’s public land. The lone buck wandering through the cholla cactus patch was one I’d seen before. His flared-out prongs and heavy bases made him easy to recognize. Two days before I’d seen him with a dozen other antelope, but today he was alone. Perfect. As he fed away, I ducked behind shrubs and cactus. When he would pause and scan his sur-

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

roundings, I melted into the dry grass, hidden in the shade of a mesquite bush and cholla cactus patch, while concealed in my 3-D leafy jacket. I kept one eye on him, the other on the rocks and grass underfoot for rattlesnakes. I kept a crosswind in my favor and the sun at my back. Slowly, the distance between us went from 300 yards to 200, then 100 and, finally, I was kneeling behind a bushy mesquite just 56 yards from the unsuspecting buck. The rangefinder reading gave me confidence,

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Tip #1 CHOOSE THE RIGHT TERRAIN At first glance, pronghorn country looks featureless and flat as a sidewalk, especially to easterners used to woodlot whitetails. Some pronghorn country is flat as a sidewalk. My advice is to avoid these locations for stalking. Instead, look for pastures with tall sage, cactus patches or ravines and rolls to the landscape. When glassing for a potential buck to stalk, I often drive right by a good buck in “impossible”

stalking terrain. I’ve been there and done that too many times and know it is a waste of calories. At the same time, I have parked on a hill and watched a specific buck all day on flat grass, waiting until he gets near broken country to ditch the truck and make my sneak. Then I stalk from shadow to shadow, on hands and knees whenever necessary, stopping in the shade of a bush or sage clump to reevaluate the situation. Your mission is to look for the right terrain first and a target buck second. Not the other way around.

Tip #2 FEWER EYES, BETTER ODDS Depending on which source you reference, pronghorn vision is comparable to 8- or 10-power binoculars. Their vision is their first line of defense. So when planning a stalk, fewer eyes are always easier. Following along the same lines as hunting the “huntable” terrain first, odds are always better if you stalk a single animal versus a herd. I remember stalking a solo buck in broken country. It was a high density area (Wyoming has lots of goats) and when I closed to 100 yards, I heard the unmistakable alarm snort of an antelope. My target buck threw his head up, got nervous and trotted off. The antelope that blew the whistle on me was a lone doe I had not seen 200 yards away. So, not only is it wise to focus on single animals for a stalk, it’s important to look closely all around the perimeter of your target buck for any satellites that might rat you out. AUTHORS PHOTOS

knowing the exact range. A summer’s worth of long-range practice was about to be tested. I waited for him to turn, and then sucked the bowstring back as sweat trickled into my eyes. The buck caught the movement and turned to stare. I bracketed my pins and touched off the release. The carbon arrow whistled through the buck so fast, I thought I missed. He slowly walked 100 yards then sagged to the ground. I was sunburned, dehydrated and cactus quills filled my shins and elbows as I walked towards the big “prairie goat.” Stalking any big-game animal with archery tackle is tough. But given the sharp eyes of America’s pronghorn and the open country where they live, it might be the ultimate stalker’s challenge. It’s tough, but not impossible. Here’s a bit of what I’ve learned from success and failure chasing pronghorns for 20 years in the vast, open areas of Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Alberta.

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TOP: Hunting over windmills is the higher odds bet for arrowing an antelope, but it certainly isn't as much fun. BOTTOM: The author snuck up on this exceptional buck while hunting the prairielands of New Mexico. He advises hunters to use leafytype camouflage that blends well with the muted grasses for maximum concealment effect.

Tip #3 DON’T GET TOO CLOSE

Tip #4 USE GOOD OPTICS

The temptation on any stalk is to get as close as possible. I used to do that. Thirty yards or less was my goal. But things usually blew apart as I closed in. Today, I have a different approach. It depends a little on if a buck is bedded or up and moving. If he is bedded and the wind and other variables are in my favor, I stall at about 50 yards. Then I wait for him to stand on his own terms. No chunking rocks or whistling. Sometimes that means lying in the hot sun for a couple of hours, but it’s wise to wait. Pronghorns rarely stay bedded for more than a couple of hours. When he finally gets up on his own, I wait until his head is turned away or in the grass feeding to draw my bow. Just as often, he gets up and wanders even closer for a higher odds shot. When stalking moving or feeding antelope, I often stop the stalk at the 100-yard mark. I have no plan to shoot that far, but I basically stop and see what will unfold. Many times the buck will wander or start to line out in a general direction. If brush and terrain permits, I get ahead of him and let him close the rest of the distance to me. Be patient. Stalk and wait. I’ve stalked a single buck for an entire day before, shadowing him at 100 to 200 yards until finally things came together. In my experience, this is a huge step towards being a more successful stalker. Stop the stalk short and then see what happens instead of pushing it every time and trying to get too close.

You can’t stalk what you can’t see, and you can’t hit what you can’t range. Specialized optics are everything for an antelope hunter. I start with a big spotting scope at the truck. I typically use a heavier 80mm scope on either a window mount or a tripod and glass from the elevated vantage of the bed of the truck, with the tripod and scope on the roof of the cab. A second, lighter 50mm or 60mm spotting scope stays stashed in my pack with a compact tripod. I use that when I’m far from my vehicle. I use the spotters to locate animals, evaluate horn size and map out a stalking route. Tenpower binoculars are always around my neck for closing the gap during a stalk. A compact rangefinder from either Nikon or Leupold stays tucked in a shirt pocket within easy reach.

Your mission is to look for the right terrain first and a target buck second. Not the other way around. Today, I keep a spare battery for the rangefinder in my backpack, but I haven’t always. One time I had my rangefinder’s battery go dead after a half day stalk on a big buck. When I crawled up to take the shot, the laser unit was dead as a stone. I missed my first long shot at the buck, but luckily I guessed the yardage better a minute later and made my second shot count. Carry a spare battery!

Tip #5 DECOYS I’ve tried a small buck and doe decoys in August and been met by blank stares from antelope. Herd bucks show no interest in charging because the rut is still too far away. But hiding behind the silhouette can help you cross open ground that would otherwise be impossible early in the season. Now, show the same small satellite buck decoy to a herd buck guarding does in mid to late September and odds are decent he will charge you and try to run you off. I’ve had decent luck using this formula. Remember, use a small buck decoy when decoying, never a large buck. Also, if you are hunting with say two buddies, have one guy run a doe decoy and the other the buck decoy. A single satellite buck is one

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BAH_1408_STALK_how to_M.CX 5/4/14 11:43 PM Page 25

TOP LEFT: Some type of pronghorn country is best left alone. Bowhunters need at least some cover to hide behind and topography that is somewhat broken or with enough contours to allow effective sneaking and crawling. Spotting scopes are handy for identifying trophy size and animal position.

thing, but a dink buck decoy with a doe decoy beside it will really fire up a jealous, dominant buck. When decoying, it really is too much for one person to try to hold the decoy or stake it down and shoot at the same time. Antelope country is hard as concrete and decoying is best with a partner—one to operate the decoy and the other to be the shooter. The method I use is to stalk unseen inside 300 yards of a buck guarding does. If you have already watched that buck chase satellite bucks away from his girls, try to get between him and the does to enrage him. Show the decoy inside 200 to 300 yards and then wait. If he does not see it right away, I give a challenging chuckle call to get his attention. Last fall, it worked perfectly on September 28 in the Texas Panhandle. Rancher RA Brown and I snuck behind thick mesquites to a mesa directly across from a buck with a couple of bedded does. First, the buck stared at the decoy. Next, he chuckled (a strange snort call), as if to say go away. I chuckled back and he came straight at us like a guided missile! He disappeared in a ravine, and then popped up to a slow walk at 51 yards trying to circle downwind. RA held the decoy while I shot around the side of it. The buck stared until the arrow impacted. There is usually enough time to range the buck and take your time to fire an accurate arrow as he stares at the decoy, so try not to rush the shot. Lightweight Montana Decoys work well, as do vintage Mel Dutton decoys if you can find one on EBay. The Be The Decoy system, where

you wear clothes to match the colors of an antelope and a hat like the face and horns of a buck, also has merit, although I have not tried it yet. I’ve used a black cow silhouette to get within rifle range but never had luck getting any closer than 150 yards while pretending to be a cow.

TOP RIGHT: Most shots on pronghorns when stalking are 40 yards or more. Be sure to improve your shooting consistency while shooting from your knees.

Tip #6 SHOOTING SKILLS HELP

Statistics from the 28th Recording Period Book of the Pope & Young Club show that approximately 37 percent of pronghorn entries were shot at distances beyond 40 yards. Clearly, if you can shoot accurately at 40 to 60 yards, your odds of stalking success go way up. My regimen is practicing about every other day in the summer months leading up to August and September antelope seasons. I practice with broadhead-tipped arrows mostly and calibrate my pin settings to my rangefinder. I practice shooting a lot from my knees. It is rare to be able to take a shot from a standing position on an antelope stalk. For the past two seasons, I’ve used an adjustable single-pin sight. My accuracy at longer distances improved immediately due to the cleaner sight picture of a single pin versus five pins and the ability to dial in the shot for odd distances like 46 or 54, not just 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 yards like my old fixed-pin setup. I shot my last two stalked pronghorns at 63 and 51 yards. On both shots, I checked the distance with a rangefinder first and moved the sight exactly to that number. On both bucks, my arrow hit exactly where I was aiming. JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

BAH_1408_STALK_how to_M 5/1/14 2:17 AM Page 26

GEAR FOR THE HUNT

II used the following gear to shoot a

fine pronghorn buck in Texas last fall. I wore Vias camouflage from Kuiu. All optics, rangefinder, binoculars and spotting scope were made by Leupold. I carried a vintage Mel Dutton buck decoy to lure a buck in away from his does for a 51-yard shot. The rut timing was right and he came on the run to runoff the fake intruder. Bow gear included a Hoyt Carbon Matrix G3 set at 64 pounds. The bow was rigged with Winner’s Choice strings, HHA Optimizer sight, Fuse Carbon Blade stabilizer and a Hoyt Ultra-Rest. I carried Victory VAP size 400 shafts in a Catquiver backpack. Rigged with stain-

The author used a Hoyt Carbon Matrix bow and Victory Archery VAP 400 arrow to take this buck at 51 yards.

less-steel inserts and an 85-grain Slick Trick broadhead, the finished arrow weighed 400 grains. Some archers think since a pronghorn buck only weighs 100 to 150 pounds, you can use ultra-light arrows. I think going any lighter than 400 grains for a pronghorn arrow is a

Pronghorns rarely stay bedded for more than a couple of hours.

mistake. Yes you want a flat, fast-shooting rig, but you need enough arrow weight to maximize penetration at longer yardages and thrrough bone. My arrow smashed through the buck’s right side shoulder blade on a slight quartering-to angle, penetrating to the fletching. He made it only 60 yards before tipping over. He had a bit of horn broken off both tips, common for herd bucks shot late in September. That was my 24th pronghorn buck with a bow. Of those 24 bucks, 11 were either “free” stalked or stalked and shot with the aid of a decoy. The other 13 bucks were shot from blinds over water, the highest odds bet for a 30-yard or less shot at a good buck, especially in times of drought. According to data from the 28th Recording Period statistical Summary Book from Pope & Young, 60 percent of pronghorn entries were shot from a ground blind, presumably near water. Thirty percent were taken by stalking, and the remainder accounted for by either treestand or still-hunting. On any pronghorn hunt, I go prepared with blinds, chairs and coolers to sit all day at water. I also carry decoys, optics and gear for spotting and stalking. —B.R.

Tip #7 DETAILS More than anything, stalking an antelope buck is about paying attention to details. Only move when his vision is obstructed. Be patient and time the movement of drawing your bow and you won’t get busted. Also, always use the rangefinder on the animal, not a bush nearby. This will prevent a wrong distance reading. I also prefer to wear full camouflage, including hands and face that blends with the muted colors of the prairie and deserts. I like thick pants from names like Carhart and Filson for stalking through rock and cacti. Leafy jackets and leafy pants help you disappear, too. I take a pair of scissors and trim the leaves off the sleeves that might contact my bowstring. I sometimes wear leather gloves for crawling but have to take them off to shoot my bow accurately. Keep snacks and water in your pack, pockets or fanny pack. Stalks can take hours and you will only want to quit if you get uncomfortable and have no supplies. Keep in mind, antelope are very curious. Multiple times I’ve been spotted during a stalk, but I just laid still. The antelope either circled downwind to smell what I was or actually came closer. I remember once a buck spotted me, stared for a few minutes, and then trotted off. A short time later, he walked right back to inspect the area. I’ve missed shots at bucks and

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

had them trot a short ways and stop and stare or even come closer. If this ever happens, be sure to check the range and get ready to shoot again! Don’t give up on a stalk until it is truly over. Another important detail is to monitor the wind direction as you stalk, keeping the buck upwind or a crosswind in your favor. I actually had an experienced guide tell me that wind direction made zero difference on antelope. I don’t believe that at all. Yes, eyesight is their first defense, but I’ve seen too many bucks come unglued when they got downwind of me. I’ve stalked bucks in the morning, midday and afternoon. Antelope are very visible all day compared to other game like deer and elk, where prime hunting time is usually the very start of the day and the very end of it. Over the years I’ve noticed that antelope do not seem as alert to a stalking hunter during that first and last hour of light in the day, especially if the buck is aggressively feeding, head down most of the time. I think it has something to do with lighting conditions and they just don’t see as well in slanting light compared to broad daylight. Tagging a pronghorn buck by spot and stalk isn’t easy. But it isn’t impossible either. Follow these rules, and I’m certain the stars will indeed line up.

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LONG-RANGE PROFICIENCY: Part 2 UNCOVERING THE MOST IMPORTANT DETAILS FOR DOWNRANGE ACCURACY. Bell

The buck was bedded sharply downhill and quartering away, exactly 66 yards from the tips of my boots. I had already shot the buck in the chest area and watched him bed down once before. Then I watched him get up and walk over the big ridge. I couldn’t believe it was happening. Moments later, I snuck in and eased up to the lip of the hill where the deer disappeared, scanning below and eventually spotting him in his new hiding spot. I had practiced long shooting distances all summer long—not intending to arrow a critter that far—but to refine my shooting form and increase challenge. Now I was about to put that skill to work in a critical follow-up situation. I believe in high ethical and humane conduct in the field, and I wanted to end this matter as soon as possible. I smoothly came to full draw—drawing horizontal to my feet first in order to maintain proper T-form—then eased my bow arm downward to acquire my target. I centered the bubble in the sight, and then the pin in the peep, and then placed the 60-yard sight bead on the deer’s last rib. I fought off a slight urge to rush the shot, eventually allowing the sight to “roll” around naturally. The bow fired all on its own. The arrow streaked downward and smacked the deer’s chest, angling forward. I was stunned. It was a very extreme (and satisfying) shooting opportunity to end a distressing circumstance. Just like I explained in last issue’s “Long-Range Proficiency—Part 1” (May/June 2014), ethical long-range shooting practice is not about “gearing up” for 70-plusyard shots at game. It’s about practicing at extended distances to better your shooting ability, to boost confidence and, most importantly, to put an end to a wounded animal on the move. With that in mind, I’d like to continue on with certain details to help maximize your long-range capability. This time around, I requested the help of Randy Ulmer, a friend of mine, who I consider to be one of the best archers of all time. His tips and advice are worth clinging to.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

Joe Bell photo

By Joe

BAH_1408_TECH_M_28-33.cx 5/1/14 2:19 AM Page 29

Ethics of Shooting Far I asked Randy about how he prepares for long shots in the field. The first thing he told me is that he doesn’t take extreme-distance shots on game. “Typically, I’m usually hunting one specific animal that I’ve pre-scouted,” said Ulmer. “If I wound him or spook him, my hunt is basically over. I do everything I can to stalk in close. I strive to be a one-shot/onekill bowhunter and have come very close to that mark in recent years. My goal is never a long-distance opportunity.” “However, that being said, I’ve killed two animals at 108 yards away, both on follow-up attempts,” added Ulmer. “One was a Utah buffalo, which I first shot at 5 yards. The second was an Arizona elk that I arrowed from 35 yards and then shot again at 108 yards. In that instance, as luck would have it, my second arrow hit within two inches of my first.” Bow sights with moving apertures, like the Custom Bow Equipment TekHybrid, are ideal for long-distance shooting, since they allow you to dial in the sight pin for any incremental yardage, boosting precision.

Why Stretch the Distance? Nearly every serious archer I know of likes to shoot far for two reasons: to promote challenge and skill. Randy is the same way. “I’ve found that shooting at extreme distances amplifies all my form problems and equipment issues,” said Ulmer. “It makes it that much easier for me to identify and fix them. This makes me focus harder on all aspects of the shot. It also makes it much easier to have increased confidence on the close shots.” Over the years, Randy has worked hard on refining his long-range shooting technique. One way he does this is to shoot at targets that are 100 yards and beyond. “I started an annual 100-yard broadhead competition years ago,” said Ulmer. “My thought was to put just as much energy and focus onto hunting-equipment accuracy as I had into my target-bow accuracy. It’s paid off very nicely. The scores the top bowhunters are shooting with their hunting equipment and broadheads would be respectable scores in a national target archery shoot.” “Again, the key is to identify the equipment and form issues that limit the performance of a hunting-bow setup. Theoretically, there should be no form issues. If you can shoot a target bow well, you should be able to carry that good form over to your hunting bow. However, there are balance and weight issues, as well as the fact that you are shooing huntingbow draw weights, so not everything is the same.”

Aiming Small We’ve all heard the adage that says, “Aim big, miss big. Aim small, miss small.” Well, with long-range shooting, nothing could be truer. However, aiming small can be difficult on a large target, like the solid outline of a deer’s chest. My friend Derek Phillips, pro shooter and Pro Staff Manager of Mathews Archery, prefers to visualize a white imaginary golf ball on the spot where he wants the arrow to hit. “I used to shoot at a 3-D animal or live deer and just hold somewhere in the middle of the kill zone and was happy wiggling around there,” said Ulmer. “I’ve found I needed to JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

BAH_1408_TECH_M_28-33.cx 5/1/14 2:19 AM Page 30

Ulmer's number-one goal is to be a one-shot/one-kill archer. For this reason, he does not condone long-distance shooting on game. Instead, he practices longer shots only to maximize skill, refine gear, and form, and to be ready for a long follow-up shot, in the event that it's deemed necessary.

I strive to be a one-shot/one-kill bowhunter and have come very close to that mark in recent years. change that mentality and aim for a specific small area.” Picking a spot is great advice, however, few bowhunters can actually do that during the moment of truth. You have to work at and practice picking a spot, really on every shot you take. A great first step is to practice on a real-life 3-D target, without an aiming bull’s eye. Force yourself to pick out an off-color spot or to visualize a orange dot or golf ball, as suggested by Phillips. Do this over and over again until it becomes automatic. This is the medicine you’ll need to drill targets downrange. Rough aiming has no place on extended-distance shots.

Bow Length & Speed In the last article, I discussed long-range shooting with Kevin Wilkey, a pro-level archer and pro staff manager for Hoyt Archery. One of his keys to shooting well at long dis-

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

tance was to combine as much of his target-shooting gear technology with his bowhunting setup. One facet of this is the bow. He typically shoots a longer, more stable setup for tournaments. For the same reason, this is why he prefers a longer bowhunting bow, too. His choice is a Hoyt Carbon Spyder 34, which he touts as much more forgiving and rock solid compared to other short-axle hunting bows on the market. Ulmer feels very similarly about longer bows for longer shots. His choice is the Carbon Spyder 34 as well, which he sets at 72 pounds draw weight and with a 30-inch draw length. Ulmer prefers bows with a 7-inch or higher brace height, as well, to maximize forgiveness, not speed. “To be an effective bowhunter, you need a consistent setup,” said Ulmer. Speaking of speed, Ulmer says super-high arrow velocity isn’t necessary for successful extended-distance shooting. “What’s necessary is a good laser rangefinder,” Ulmer adds. “As long as you know the exact distance to your target, speed is a non-issue. What is an issue is bow noise, and more speed usually amplifies this. The number-one reason why I miss mule deer is due to them jumping the string. For this reason, I want a super-quiet bow, not a faster, louder one. I often take my quiver off my bow before taking a shot, specifically to make it quieter. Stealth is what I’m after, not speed.”

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Arrow Setup Is Key

Which Broadhead? Most serious long-range aficionados prefer the supreme aerodynamics of mechanical broadheads. They are simply more accurate and forgiving, specifically when the wind is blowing. Ulmer is a big proponent of mechanicals for this same reason, but says that not all mechanical heads are created equal. “I’m not a big fan of most mechanical broadheads,” he flatly stated. “However, I am a big fan of a limited selection of mechanical heads.” “The reason is simple,” Ulmer continued. “They are much more accurate than a fixed head, period. I have spent hundreds of hours grouping and testing broadheads and arrows. I have two shooting machines, so I know this is true.” “Fixed blade heads do not group as well as mechanicals. None of them do!” Ulmer said. “No matter what the manufacture says. You can get very reasonable accuracy out of some fixed heads, but it requires much more fletching, which causes more wind drift and, like I said before, if you want true hunting-condition accuracy, you have to factor in the wind. The head itself causes a lot of drift.”

BOW SIGHT SETUP Many long-range

shooters prefer to extend the bowsight

take. It's simply too cumbersome when

farther out from the bow riser in hopes of

moving through brush. Eventually, the

improving accuracy. I asked Ulmer if he

sight will get banged up, causing prob-

prefers to do this as well.

lems. "I like to keep my hunting stuff really

"No, I don't for hunting," he said. "There is some geometry behind doing this to

simple," Ulmer adds. "I actually trim the

gain accuracy. In some cases, you might

dovetail off my bow sights, so they bolt

be able to focus your sight pin better, or

on as tight to the bow as possible. I don't

the pin and target will come into neutral

want my sight vulnerable to damage. I

focus. However, for hunting, extending

want it to work reliably, each and every

the sight way out from the bow is a mis-

time."

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Conventional wisdom says, faster arrows are better for out-West shooting, to minimize high and low hits in wide-open country. But as we just went over, faster arrows are usually lighter arrows, and lighter arrows will use less energy from the bow’s string, making the shot louder. They also dissipate energy faster downrange compared to a heavier shaft. These are just some of the reasons why Ulmer favors heavier arrows. But, it’s the accuracy capability, more than anything, that really makes them shine. “Bottom line,” Ulmer says, “is that a slower, heavier arrow shaft is more accurate. It’s better at bucking the wind, even though it shoots more slowly. I hunt almost exclusively in the West where the wind always blows! I have found that in our competitions, which are held in the woods on the Coconino Plateau, that I will miss more shots from wind drift than from bad execution. Wind simply becomes a bigger variable to deal with than my shooting ability.” Ulmer prefers to hunt with a 500grain arrow with a high front-of-center weight. It shoots about 270 to 280 fps.

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BAH_1408_TECH_M_28-33.cx 5/1/14 2:20 AM Page 32

STABILIZER OR NOT?

Ulmer almost never uses a stabilizer on his bow. I asked him

why he does this, since stabilizers are proven to increase shooting accuracy. "I hunt mainly out West, which means most of the time I'm out climbing mountains," said Ulmer. "This is why I don't use a stabilizer—to make my bow lighter and more maneuverable. Sure, a stabilizer will make you a little more accurate. It balances the bow better, making it comfortable and quieter. But I want to travel as light as possible in the mountains. Overall, traveling light and being less fatigued means more to me than a slightly more balanced bow. After all, my current setup balances well just as it is."

Shooting long range helps identify problems in your form and equipment. This is one reason why Randy Ulmer enjoys this discipline. He also does it for maximizing challenge and fun. He shot this tight group at a100-yard broadhead-tournament shoot, using nothing but hunting gear and broadheads on his arrows.

Long-Range Energy Requirements

Micro-diameter arrows, such as the Easton Injexion, are ideal for maximizing accuracy downrange. They simply buck the wind better due to their lowsurface-area profile, improving consistency and downrange energy as well. Joe Bell photo

As long as you know the exact distance to your target, speed is a non-issue. What is an issue is bow noise, and more speed usually amplifies this. 32

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

One huge detail many archers don’t think much about is downrange energy. Remember, if you are preparing for long-range follow-up shooting possibilities, then you’d better be sure you have the necessary downrange arrow thump to drive the broadhead deep into animal tissue. Most experts would agree that the majority of today’s mechanicals do require more arrow energy to ensure deep penetration. So, what is an acceptable amount? Well, there really isn’t one specific benchmark, I’d say. Mainly because there are lots of variables involved. One facet involves downrange decay of arrow velocity. The less decay, the greater the energy. Ulmer insists on using the lowest-profile arrow setup possible, to first lessen wind drift, and second, to maximize downrange velocity. “This is why I shoot an Easton Injexion shaft with a 125grain stainless-steel broadhead, along with a heavier insert,” said Ulmer. “This arrow weighs about 500 grains. I also use very small 1.7-inch Arizona Archery Max vanes, all to maximize accuracy and to reduce downrange velocity loss.”

Follow-Through As far as shooting form goes, many experts believe that your release and follow-through are two of the most important areas to pay attention to. Jerrod Lile, of Trophy Taker, couldn’t agree more. Lile is a hard-core bowhunter and enjoys challenging himself with 100-yard shots during the off-season. “I cannot say enough for using a super high-quality release aid,” said Lile. “I prefer the Carter Like Mike. It has no travel to it, which ensures a smooth, surprise shot. This

BAH_1408_TECH_M_28-33.cx 5/1/14 2:20 AM Page 33

quality is necessary for consistent, long-range shooting.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Next is follow through,â&#x20AC;? adds Lile. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even a trigger puncher can shoot well if he/she can muster the mental fortitude to follow through properly. If my groups are not what I believe they should be, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost always about tightening up my follow through.â&#x20AC;?

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Trophy Taker's Jerrod Lile says a super-crisp release aid, a polished follow-through, and a well-tuned bow are the most important elements to long-range shooting success.

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Precise and thorough bow tuning is critical to long-range accuracy. Lile believes bare-shaft tuning is useful for maximizing downrange accuracy and forgiveness. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aside from basic paper tuning,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153; I like to shoot a bare shaft and a fletched shaft from 20 yards away, and then make micro adjustments to my arrow rest until the bare shaft hits in the same left/right plane as the fletched shaft.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some people go so far as to wrap tape on the back end of the bare shaft to match the exact weight of the fletched arrow, but I have found this step to be unnecessary. I just like to get the left/right plane identical, even though the bare shaft may impact an inch or so higher than my fletched arrow.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once I get that all dialed in,â&#x20AC;? Lile continues, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will walk-back tune to confirm Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m dialed in (this means to shoot an arrow at 20, 40 and [if your target is tall enough] 60 yards, all while aiming at the same dot with your 20-yard pin). Your arrows should be in a perfect vertical lineâ&#x20AC;Śif not, then be sure to micro-adjust your rest until the arrows line up.â&#x20AC;? In the past, long-range shooting has gotten a very bad rap. And rightly so. We should never, ever take an extended-distance shot on a live animal. There is simply too much to go wrong and the likelihood of improperly wounding the animal is too high to consider it. Only ethical conduct belongs in our sport. But, there is simply nothing wrong with practicing on long-range targets. It increases skill, it boosts confidence, it helps you tune your equipment better, and it makes archery a little more fun. However, the most important key behind shooting far is to increase your readiness of making an extra-long follow-up shot. This is the ethical fundamental to it. And, that, is nothing to disapprove of, certainly not in my book.

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BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

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STRATEGIES FOR

ELK HERE ARE FIVE AREAS THAT CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR NEXT HUNT. By Jason Stafford

he big herd bull sounded off with a deafening scream, and then slowly bird-dogged his harem of girlfriends towards a gurgling mountain spring, where they all drank to prepare for the long day’s rest. Meanwhile, I was laying in a patch of pungent sagebrush. I had just exhausted myself, running close to a mile to get in front of the elk. The stalk was intense. With the wind in my face, I pushed ahead, praying that I would get close enough for a shot at the big chocolate-colored 6x6. Using the broken topography to my advantage, I closed to within 70 yards of the herd. Then, when the elk went out of sight behind a small knoll near the spring, I quickly hustled and got set up near the trail they used–in position about 40 yards away. From my past hunting experiences in the area, I knew it was very likely that they’d exit the same way they entered the waterhole. Minutes seemed like hours, as I eagerly waited for the herd to make their next move. I caught a glimpse of a cow’s ear coming back down the trail, and my adrenaline went into overdrive. I just love when a plan comes together. Soon I saw the white tips of the bull’s antlers in tow. The cows walked past me at 40 yards, totally oblivious to my presence. Then the bull stopped broadside and turned his head in the other direction and let out his last bugle. I went to full draw, settled my sight pin tight behind his massive shoulder and sent the arrow on its way. The Easton AXIS arrow buried deep into the bull’s chest. Confused to what had just happened, the bull spun, ran 10 yards, then stopped to see what was going on. I sent another arrow. He ran a short ways and then crashed to the ground.

The author's friend, Ron Niziolek, with a nice bull he arrowed with the help of a Heads Up decoy.

As I stood admiring the bull, I couldn’t help but reminisce about all the hard work and planning that goes into an archery elk hunt. I have been very fortunate over the years to take many great bulls. However, this success has not come easy, and I have made many mistakes over the years that have ruined my chances at great trophies. The key to success, I’ve found, is sticking to a set of rules or strategies. Here are five areas that have worked well for me.

#1 Go Deep It goes without saying that you’ve got to hunt elk where they live. But I like to take it a bit further and hunt areas where elk exist but where fewer hunters are likely to go. To do this, you’ve got to be willing to hike and hunt a little harder than the average guy, but let me tell you, the payoff is well worth it. I like to define “back in” areas as those that are about four miles from the nearest road or trailhead. I look for hunting locations with lots of water and food for elk. Lastly, I glean spots with high knobs that provide more effective glassing opportunity. This way, I can spot my target and hustle in position fast instead of listening for bulls here and there, hoping for a chance. JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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I like to define 'back in' areas as those that are about four miles from the nearest road or trailhead. TOP: At first light, bulls are on the move and on their way back to bedding areas. This is prime time for spot-andstalk hunting opportunity. BOTTOM: Aggressive stalking is often used to ambush bulls. This begins with glassing up a bull, watching its likely travel path, then hustling ahead to set up an ambush. This is how this bull was shot. OPPOSITE, BOTTOM: One key to being successful is going in deep, hunting where other hunters aren't likely to go. This usually entails backpacking and "roughing it" out in the elements.

#2 Scout Hard I contribute my better-than-average success on elk to the amount of time and effort I spend scouting, particularly during the summer months leading up to opening day. I’m a bit obsessive compulsive when it comes to elk scouting, and it pays off for me. During the summer weeks, I find a high point and glass and glass. By doing this, I locate elk, learn their habits, and take inventory of the caliber of bulls in the area. I also follow up my glassing efforts with on-the-ground scouting. I especially pay close attention to old rub-lines that are near bedding areas. These “core” locations are where bulls spend a lot of their time cruising the edges while on the look out for cows in heat. For the most part, the elk I hunt in Wyoming return to the same areas year after year to rut, unless a fire or major hunting pressure pushes them elsewhere. Therefore, I’m confident when I locate such sign that this is exactly where I want to be hunting around mid-September.

#3 Stalk More My favorite and most successful elk hunting tactic by far is spot and stalk, or should I say spot and ambush. I call it the runand-gun strategy versus spot and stalk because it involves a lot more hustling than stalking. I typically find a high point and glass likely feeding areas, just like spot-and-stalk mule deer hunting. The only difference being is that I hope to ambush the bulls before they get to their bedding grounds. Patience is the name of the game with this style of hunting, as you want to be absolutely sure which timber patch the bulls are heading to. As a novice elk hunter, I used to take off on a stalk as soon as the bulls started to feed in a particular direction. I would arrive in the perfect ambush location only to see the elk feeding into a different bedding spot. It didn’t take long to learn I was doing it wrong. Instead, I needed to watch the elk for awhile, figure their most-likely travel path, and then move in. Also, during preseason scouting, you will get a better idea on how elk use a certain area and this can be factored into your ambush strategy accordingly. Once you think that you know where the elk are moving to, then it’s time to switch gears from being patient

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

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to being aggressive. The key is to hustle ahead of the elk somehow, depending on wind direction, and then sit and wait for them to walk on by. If you miss out on intercepting the elk, and they make it past you, chances are you won’t ever catch up and get a shot. Keep in mind that elk are different from deer, in that you can be more aggressive while stalking them. If a deer catches your movement, they are gone. However, elk don’t startle as much, and if they can’t make you out, well, they’ll stare for a while and eventually go back to feeding. Sometimes being timid and patient works best when stalking, but with elk, being more aggressive seems to work better

I prefer to simply stalk my quarry and to pursue it quietly, not contaminating the air with ‘human’ elk talk and possibly scaring a big bull away.

#4 Don’t Overcall

Personally, I prefer to hunt big bulls early well before the peak of the rut. Many bowhunters don’t think elk are very vocal before the rut, but that’s not entirely true. I’ve heard bulls bugle during July, believe it or not. It’s not the deep, raspy bugle that is common during the rut, but more of a high-pitched squeal. Regardless, elk are very vocal throughout hunting season. The cows and calves are constantly talking to each other. These vocalizations are critical during the early season, as they allow hunters to keep tabs on the herd while they are stalking and setting up a shot opportunity. Nowadays, I don’t rely on cow talk very much. Instead, I prefer to simply stalk my quarry and to pursue it quietly, not contaminating the air with “human” elk talk and possibly scaring a big bull away. However, sometimes calling does work and is what I rely on, given the situation dictates the need. This scenario usually takes place during the first week of September when bulls are experiencing pre-rut testosterone, are beginning to gather cows and, consequently, are very susceptible to calling tricks. This is also the timeframe when bulls seem most aggressive as they establish their dominant pecking order for the upcoming breeding season. To capitalize on this phase of the season, I’ll typically sneak as close to possible to a bull I’m trying to harvest.

And, if I can’t stalk all the way in for a shot, I’ll try to call him in by using a high-pitched squeal, simulating a young bull. More times than not the bull will come in to see who is challenging him. Of course, sometimes it doesn’t work but if it does you’ll have a heart-pounding close encounter you’ll never forget. For calling, I prefer open-reed mouth calls, since they are easier to use for me than diaphragm-style calls. Really, use whatever works for you best. I began using Phelps Game calls a couple of years ago because they can be blown loud and raspy, creating sound pitches bulls will find irresistable. Most bulls that do respond during the pre-rut come in silently, so you have to be on the lookout and ready to act fast.

#5 Use a Decoy One of the most overlooked elk strategies is to set up and use a decoy. How many times have you called in a rutcrazed bull into 80 yards, only to have him “hang up” and eventually drift away? I have found that when a bull comes in and sees the decoy, he is much less likely to hang up because of the visual affect of the decoy.

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Walking the ridges and glassing is a top hunting method in most elk regions.

I started using decoys about five years ago, when I purchased a cow elk decoy made by Montana Decoy Company. I used the decoy sporadically with pretty good success the first couple of years, but I love the run-andgun style of elk hunting and the poor decoy ended up spending more time in the truck than in my pack. I’ll be the first to admit, and my wife will quickly back this statement up, but I really do not like change. If I find something that works

I have found that when a bull comes in and sees the decoy, he is much less likely to hang up because of the visual affect of the decoy."

Bowhunting elk on your own, particularly on public land, is a highly rewarding proposition, especially on those years when everything comes together and you get to pack out a giant bull.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

for me, I’ll stick with it. However, I’m beginning to change and use decoys more. A year ago or so I was introduced to a new style of decoy on the market made by Heads Up Decoys. At first I was a little skeptical using a decoy that consisted only of a cow elk’s head, but that skepticism quickly went away the first time I flashed the decoy to an approaching bull, which had hung up at about 100 yards out. When that bull locked onto the decoy, sticking above the sagebrush, he came well within bow range, but I blew it and made too much movement, causing him to spook. Nevertheless, it worked very well and I was impressed. This type of decoy is light and compact, too, strapping easily to the outside of your pack when not in use. Also, I now us a clamp accessory in conjunction with the Heads Up Cow Elk Decoy, so that I can fasten the decoy to the underbrush or a low-hanging tree limb and position myself in front and downwind of the decoy for a shot. Does it work? Well, this past fall my hunting partner, Ron Niziolek, called in a beautiful 7x7 bull that came in silent and began beating up a tree just out of bow range. Ron clamped his Heads Up Decoy to a tree limb and crawled a few yards in front and downwind of his decoy. He let out a soft cow mew that caught the bull’s attention. When the bull came looking for the cow, he locked in on Ron’s decoy and came right in, offering Ron a lethal shot. Elk hunting is unique, fun and challenging. These strategies have really helped put the odds in my favor over the years. And I have no doubt that they’ll do the same for you.

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AN OUTFITTER’S PASSION WHEN IT COMES TO HUNTING BIG WHITETAILS, FEW HAVE THE DRIVE AND KNOWLEDGE OF WISCONSINBASED OUTFITTER, TOM INDREBO. By Jeff Stonehouse

rom the expertly placed ladder stand, I caught movement to my right. “Here they come,” I thought. “Just like Tom said they would.” But, then, the five does suddenly halted along the trail, glancing around nervously for several minutes before splitting off in different directions. One of the spooky critters came my way and eventually stepped into a shooting lane. That was all I needed. A 22-yard quartering away shot finished the deer quickly. I watched her drop as my heart palpitated. Buck or doe, a whitetail always gives me an adrenaline rush. Like most guys, I have a limited hunting budget each year. Keeping my expenses down is a necessity resulting from an average Joe’s income. In other words, I don’t have a very fat wallet. Spending money on an outfitter always rubbed me the wrong way and seemed unnecessary. Over the past three decades, I have pursued lots of different game on the cheap, mostly on do-it-yourself hunts and occasionally by drop camp. But my 2013 outfitted-Wisconsin deer hunt was such a rewarding, enjoyable, and educational experience that my attitude has changed. I now believe that a good outfitted hunt is well worth the cost. As Peter Capstick once described an African safari, it comes down to “true value for money.”

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Each season, Tom Indrebo guides clients to trophy-size deer. This is Jim Burrington’s 2010 buck that scored an incredible 183 inches.

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One of Tom's clients, Troy Muche, with a deer known as the “Flyer” buck.

His fascination with North America’s number-one big game animal is obvious as he speaks." Premier Whitetailer First of all, let me say that Tom Indrebo of Bluff Country Outfitters offers quite reasonable prices in comparison with similar operations, but he also affords the archer an unbelievable opportunity at recordbook deer. I was on a management hunt with the lofty goal of bagging a chubby doe with my longbow, but I saw plenty of big bucks while in the beautiful woods of Buffalo County, a widely acclaimed destination for Pope and Young whitetails. And, more importantly, I walked away with a much improved understanding of whitetails, how to scout them, and consequently how to hunt them. One of the first things Tom told me was that a hunter should take what he learns on his first outfitted hunt and use it in the future on selfguided hunts. “An outfitter does this for a living,” Tom explained, “so he has a lot to teach you, if you’re a willing student. You would not believe how many guys show up with

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

This photo shows Moses following a “perfect” hit. It was later determined that the hunter’s arrow had deflected along the outside of the ribcage. The shot was all captured on video.

the attitude that they already know everything there is to know about hunting whitetails. They’re starting out with a handicap.” At the outset, my main purpose for this trip was to interview Tom and, in the process, learn about his operation and absorb a bit of the atmosphere of Bluff Country Outfitters. And, of course, I was eager to get some venison. I was not expecting an in-depth clinic on scouting. That was a pleasant, resounding surprise. During my short visit, I acquired more information than could ever be related in a single magazine article. When you first meet Tom, you are struck by two things: You immediately will mistake him for a skinny Santa Claus, constantly jolly with a bushy white beard. But, after conversing briefly with the head elf of Buffalo County, you will be impressed with this man’s vast knowledge of the whitetail’s behavior and how to hunt this elusive creature. After spending a few days with Tom

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this past December, I left his camp with venison in the cooler, great outdoor memories and a new wealth of knowledge. It’s quite apparent, even to the casual observer, that Tom loves and respects whitetails.

TOP RIGHT: Tom really got to know Moses throughout the years, developing a certain amount of affection for the elusive buck. BOTTOM RIGHT: At Bluff Country Outfitters, every room is an adventure.

So while Tom is clearly obsessed with his trail-camera photos, he relies on a bit of low-tech scouting as well... His fascination with North America’s number-one big game animal is obvious as he speaks. While Tom is pushing 70, his enthusiasm and energy level are those of a much younger man. Some folks might say that Tom has seen it all, but he definitely would disagree with that assertion. He told me that he is constantly learning new things, and that his extensive scouting offers surprises on a daily basis. Originally, Tom bought property in Buffalo County simply to hunt it. Like the rest of us, he lived and breathed bowhunting. He did not intend to become an outfitter. But one thing led to another. In the early 90s, he guided a few friends and acquaintances, including a young Terry Rohm, now of Wellington Outdoors. Two Florida outdoorsmen were his first paying clients. He soon gave up hunting to focus entirely on his growing business. “I quickly learned that my real satisfaction comes from helping others succeed,” he explained. “I continue to do all of the prep, most importantly scouting, and that’s more fun for me now than the hunt itself.”

Obsessed With Scouting These days, Tom’s driving passion is the detective work. His eyes light up when he talks about scouting, specifically the use of trail cameras. Lately, Tom has been analyzing nighttime photos and video footage from flash and infrared cameras. He has reached a firm conclusion based on his research: infrared scares deer. One afternoon, Tom sat me down in front of his computer and began showing me his recent trail-camera images. As we reviewed both flash and infrared pictures, it was clear from the animals’ reactions that Tom’s conclusion is correct, and I for one will continue using standard-flash trail cameras. Based on the footage Tom showed me, there is no doubt that the steady red light of infrared units spooks game. While I found this revelation interesting, what truly fascinated me was Tom’s enthusiasm on the subject and how much he enjoyed sharing his discovery with me. As bowhunters, we all want to engage in productive scouting. Trail cameras have added a whole new dimension to our approach, not to mention our results. In the good old days, we would walk through the woods in search of deer sign, unintentionally messing up our potential honey holes. The mere sighting of a rub or scrape would make our hearts leap, and that discovery would be ample evidence stirring us to hang a stand nearby. Times have changed. Now we expect to see the buck of our dreams from a variety of angles before we ever climb into a treestand. I don’t think any of us would want to return to the “good old days.” Today’s technology is an undeniable boon to the archer.

HUNT WITH TOM My 2013 Wisconsin whitetail hunt ranks among my most enjoyable experiences of all time. Tom Indrebo runs a fantastic operation. Food and accommodations were excellent, the hunting was superb, and the in depth scouting clinic was invaluable. I cannot wait to put to use some of the lessons learned. For more information, including pricing, visit Bluffcountryoutfitters.com. —J.S.

EQUIPMENT NOTES To bag my Buffalo County doe, I used a 52# Stalker Coyote FXT custom longbow, Carbon Express Heritage arrows, a Selway quiver, 150 grain Thundervalley Snuffer broadheads, and Pentax binoculars. I wore clothing by Columbia and Sitka Gear. —J.S.

Fond of Trail Cameras Tom Indrebo has thousands of trail camera images accumulated over the years. He has kept current with the latest in scouting technology and has even designed his own trail cameras to obtain superior images. A number of years ago, dissatisfied with the standard commercial trail cameras of the time, he began assembling his own scouting cameras. It was a costly undertaking, but the end result (superior photos) was worth it to Tom. He has countless high quality images as a result. And he uses these when deciding where to put his hunters. There is no guarantee, however. “When it comes to wild whitetails, there’s no such thing as a canned hunt,” he stated, adding JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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I now believe that a good outfitted hunt is well worth the cost."

TOP: Geno Oleson hunted with Tom and Bluff Country Outfitters and arrowed this fantastic 178 6/8-inch whopper during the 2011 season. RIGHT: I achieved my goal of putting meat in the cooler. I used my trusty 52-pound Stalker Coyote FXT longbow to seal the deal.

that a guy can expect a 70-percent chance at a Pope and Young buck on his property. Tom has not disregarded the value of human reconnaissance, despite his reliance on trail cameras. At Bluff Country Outfitters, he works to maintain the atmosphere of an “old farmhouse,” where hunters gather to discuss their personal observations made while sitting a stand. “There is no other way to collect as much information about deer behavior,” Tom stressed to me. “With all those guys hunting, I learn a lot. They become my eyes and ears. I’m interested in what every hunter has to say. While trail cameras are invaluable and record a vast quantity of significant data, they have limitations. Hunters come in at the end of the day with their stories,

Some days, approximately 100 trail camera images were recorded of the majestic buck. His movements were well documented. Nevertheless, Moses was no pushover for many determined hunters, invariably eluding his pursuers one way or another. He even survived an ostensibly perfect bow shot that was recorded on video by Pat Reeve of “Driven TV.” Tom showed me the footage, and I concurred that the shot looked dead-on. There is no doubt that Moses was a natural born survivor. One subsequent trail camera image shows Moses standing under a licking branch, very much alive after that “perfect shot” but with a heavily scarred area covering his broadside. Moses ultimately fell to a rifle hunter in November of 2006. During the

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

and together we can analyze and interpret that information.” So while Tom is clearly obsessed with his trail-camera photos, he relies on a bit of low-tech scouting as well— good old fashioned eyewitness accounts. Nor is he averse to walking his property when he is certain not to spook deer. He is an avid shed hunter, extolling the virtues of this postseason activity. It is one of his favorite ways to learn about the deer in his area.

Tales from the Past Tom is a gifted storyteller, and he has scores of anecdotes. But one story in particular is especially captivating, which is about a deer called Moses. According to Tom, Moses was probably the most intensively scouted and photographed whitetail of all time.

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butchering process, it was determined that Pat’s arrow deflected along the outside of the ribcage. The 6 ½year-old buck scored 194 non-typical. As he posed with Moses’ mounted sheds, Tom spoke affectionately of the old warhorse. “He was like one of my kids. I watched him grow up. It was a little bit sad the day he died.” Finally, it was time to leave Buffalo County and head home to Colorado. My stay in the impeccably furnished and decorated cabin had been a real pleasure. The meat in my cooler was much appreciated. But more than anything else, my long conversations with Tom, and the education I received from those talks, made my first outfitted whitetail hunt well worth the expense. Early on, Tom had expressed his opinion that one reason for a guy to go on an outfitted hunt is that he will gain knowledge that can be applied in the future on self-guided hunts. In light of my own experience, I agree 100 percent with that statement. Like

college tuition, the money spent can be viewed as an investment in one’s education. As I was wrapping up the interview, one of Tom’s earlier comments kept needling at me. The notion of a diehard bowhunter abandoning the sport did not sit well with me. I was

perplexed, and I simply had to get to the bottom of this nonsense. Finally I asked him, “Don’t you miss the adrenaline rush?” “Not really,” Tom replied without hesitation. Then a look of utter contentment came across his face. “And best of all, now my hunt never ends.”

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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

This buck was called into the sounds of two bucks fighting, so he's on alert and even though he's within bow range, there's absolutely no ethical shot.

BOW ARROW HUNTING â&#x20AC;˘ JULY/AUGUST

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MAKING THE SHOT HEED THIS ADVICE FOR THE MOST ETHICAL AND SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME DURING YOUR NEXT SHOOTING ENCOUNTER. By Dana R. Rogers

t certainly felt like a standoff. I’d just rattled in a great mature buck, a heavy bodied 5x5 I’d been trying to get close to for a few years. He had come to investigate the mock battle I’d painted in his mind, and he was on full alert and ready for a fight. The buck stood in a tight opening at just under 30 yards, slightly quartering to me just staring, looking for the source of all that rattling, grunting and snort wheezes. I had enough cover and concealment that I’m fairly certain I could have drawn. Lord knows I had enough time to draw, settle the pin and release. The shooting lane was clear, and he was well within my effective range. But I didn’t draw. I had hoped to get him to come another 5 to 10 yards, that would have put him on a perfectly broadside plane in a wide-open ranch two-track road. That shot opportunity never came, though, as the buck slunk back into thick cover and out of my life that day. I talked myself into waiting for the perfect shot, and wound up getting none. I was disappointed but wasn’t totally sure I’d made the wrong choice. The buck was fully alert and wired, so even if I’d gotten drawn and settled that pin tight to his slightly quartering shoulder, I

wasn’t comfortable with it. An alert deer can duck to load his legs to flee in an instant, contorting his body in the process. I might have got off the shot and slid it right into the sweet spot, but I also could have sent an arrow into a non-vital area as he jumped the string. It wasn’t worth the risk in that scenario. Sometimes that perfect shot never comes, other times we pass up great shot opportunities just waiting for a better one that winds up not coming. Depending on what game animal you are pursuing, waiting on that perfect 20-yard, stationary, broadside, looking-away shot might not be necessary. Now don’t get me wrong and start sending in hate letters to the editor. I’m not going to ever advocate taking a frontal shot, straight away, straight down or a headshot with any bowhunting setup. When I was “learning” in my early years of bowhunting, all the knowledgeable bowhunters and educators I knew taught me that you must wait for a perfectly broadside or slight quartering-away angle. Certainly, those are the best shots to take but with the effectiveness of modern archery equipment, the shots you would “never” have taken 20 or even 10 years ago just might be more effective than you think.

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TOP LEFT: Be sure you practice regularly from an elevated perch to prepare for shots in the field. RIGHT: Moving shots can be tricky, but if the shot range is slow and the deer is slowly walking, then it's a shot that can be made ethically. Again, practice such scenarios well before the season and figure out your limitations.

Assessing the Shot What factors should a bowhunter consider when they are determining what shots they should or shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take? The shots that you take should depend upon the animal and conditions. The distance I would take on a broadside moose or elk is quite likely going to be a bit farther than my max distance for turkey or whitetail. Not only are turkey and whitetail a much smaller target, they are also more skittish. A turkey rarely stops moving, and an alert whitetail with his legs ready to load, can react and dodge an arrow more quickly than their larger cousins. In my opinion, bowhunting shots are situational and very dependent. You have to know your equipment and your effective capabilities under the current circumstances. Two ex-

BOW ARROW HUNTING â&#x20AC;˘ JULY/AUGUST

Even if it looks like you might get a better shot, take the first good shot you get.

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amples that stand out from my last couple of seasons personify what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m talking about. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d spotted a nice pronghorn buck in a field of large round straw bales and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d managed to stalk within 50 yards of the feeding buck. As I eased myself around the last-straw bale, the buck was slightly quartering away feeding. There was almost no wind, which is very rare on the open prairie. I had my rangefinder, and I got the positive 50-yard reading on a few different occasions. I calmed myself, drew and settled in. The picture felt good, and I was very confident under those perfect conditions. That buck went home with me that night but that distance is not normally a shot I take very often. Last fall, while sitting in a treestand overlooking a standing corn food plot, I had a nice plump whitetail doe feed out into an opening at less than 25 yards. She was fairly relaxed but I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. The wind was pushing 40 mph and my tree was actually swaying. I picked up my bow, but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even bother to draw. Under those conditions, there was no way I was going to chance releasing an arrow. I arrowed this 4Â˝ year-old after he'd walked directly toward me coming out of a standing corn patch. I held at full draw for quite some time, waiting for him to turn away and move his front leg forward, giving me a clear path to his vitals.

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DON'T LET THEM JUMP! Big-game animals have unbelievable reflexes and superior senses. It’s always best to get a shot at a completely unsuspecting animal but, in certain situations, it’s not always possible. As the alertness level of the animal increases, your margin for error decreases. The shot may be great as it leaves your bow, but the animal can react and duck the arrow. If the animal is even slightly aware of your presence, then you need to be very careful with your shot selection and range. Good examples of this are an elk you’ve bugled in, a pronghorn on pins and needles coming to water, or a whitetail buck rattled in like the one in the beginning of this piece. —D.R.

When to Release When it comes to drawing back the bowstring and anchoring your pin on a game animal, there are many things that can cause the shot to go awry. So how do you “know” when to take the shot? Life lessons are often hard won through failure and missed opportunities. Lord knows I’ve made my share of mistakes and I’ve certainly missed more game than I’d really care to admit. You might have saved for years for that out-of-state guided hunt or you might be targeting a specific buck in your own backyard. Opportunities are often fleeting. If you are ready and capable, take the first good “ethical” killing shot offered.

Moving Targets How about a moving target? Ever have a rut-crazed whitetail buck sprint by dogging a hot doe within spitting distance of your treestand? If you have a walking deer and you know they’ll be in one of your shooting lanes shortly, don’t wait too long before you draw because you might get caught in mid-stride. Once I see a buck I want to take, and he’s walking with some brush screening him and nearing a predetermined shooting lane, I’ll

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

draw immediately. A whitetail that’s slowly walking into my wheelhouse is a shot I have and will take. You must be confident in the shot and know you can execute it though. When it comes to drawing, timing can be absolutely critical. The best way I know to acquire this skill is simply by watching the game you are hunting and studying their behavior and especially their body language.

Watch the Eyes An important thing to keep in mind when waiting for a shot opportunity is that, regardless of the direction your target animal is facing, if you can see their eyes they can see you. If I’m hunting out of a treestand and a deer is walking towards me in the open, I’ll likely let him pass before drawing. If at all possible, wait until the deer’s vision is obstructed before drawing your bow. From the perspective of a treestand, how high you hang your stand does not matter if the deer is far enough away. A deer standing off in a distance staring at the base of your tree just has to look up a couple degrees from ground level to see you up in the tree. What is very important is not letting a deer

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get in too close to your stand. You must pay careful attention to the angle the deer is standing in relation to the angle the arrow will travel through its vitals. Always think about aiming for the exit and getting that double-lung hit. If you let the deer get too close to the base of you stand, the angle will be too severe and the margin for a double-lung shot can be quite small. If a deer gets too close–don’t take that shot.

Be Ready Be prepared to take a shot at any time. How many times have you been sitting in your tree-

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

stand with bow hung up trying to stay warm and been surprised by a deer that’s already in range? I rarely sit on stand anymore and if I am my bow is in my hands and ready. If you get caught flat footed, you will have a much harder time getting away with the movement of picking up your bow and drawing for the shot without getting busted. Don’t be complacent, be ready at all times. If you are sitting, don’t wait until that deer gets in too close before standing. As soon as you hear or see deer approaching, slowly stand and get into position, regardless of if you

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LEFT: Many excited hunters often take this kind of a shot, but it's simply unethical since the shoulder blade is covering the vital zone. Waiting for a better opportunity (broadside or quartering-away angle) is the only ethical thing to do. BOTTOM: This 6½ year-old buck came into a decoy setup, fully alert and on edge. I knew I had to take the first good shot that was presented. The tripod stand I was in really stuck out on the open prairie, so I didn't dare try to stand up and pivot. I was in luck with a bright setting sun at my back, so he couldn't quite pick me out as being a danger. I drew from a seated position and as soon as he cleared the first opening at a broadside angle, I took the shot.

know you want to take the shot or not. Even if you do not plan on shooting the deer you see approaching, I highly recommend you stand because the next deer out of the brush might be the buck of a lifetime.

Know Your Gear Know your equipment and your limitations. Today’s bows are faster than ever and advances in arrows and broadheads allow the delivery of devastating kinetic energy with razor-sharp effects. Given enough kinetic energy, some of

In my opinion, bowhunting shots are situational and very dependent.

(Continued on page 81)

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Strapping on a backpack to access remote hunting areas is a key step in ensuring a productive hunt, especially in hard-hunted regions.

MULE DEER PLANS BAGGING A HIGH-MOUNTAIN BUCK REQUIRES STEALTH AND DETERMINATION, BUT MORE THAN ANYTHING, CAREFUL PLANNING. By Brian Strickland

rom my elevated rocky perch the bedded buck really didn’t look that far away, but as I began the climb up the steep incline, I soon realized the folly of my judgment. It wasn’t bad at first, but with each step my pack seemed to push deeper, my legs grew heavier, and my lungs constricted tighter, causing me to second guess my original intention. Through the spotting scope, his respectable four-by-four velvet crown would easily put a smile on my face, but in my zeal to put a sneak on my bedded prize, I misjudged the mountain’s steepness. But just like seasons past, I kept my mental focus and pushed on, knowing what was waiting on the bench above. Just as I had hoped, the buck was still bedded in the thick cluster of waist-high mountain mahogany, only revealing the tips of his fuzzy antlers as he shook his head in vain, attempting to find relief from the buzzing gnats and flies. At less than two football fields away, he looked better than before; all I had to do was develop a well-thought-out plan to close the distance to suitable arrow range. From my position slightly above and behind him, my only option was to slip down to a small bench that was dotted with large boulders and

brush and wait for him to make the next move. That would still put me a little farther than I preferred to shoot, but close enough to at least get me on the playing field. With the up-slope winds still being true and my watch showing a couple hours past high noon, I managed to ease into position without a hitch, and along the way I noticed that the buck was not alone. Not 20 yards to his right lay a young 2X3. Although he was not old enough to raise an eyebrow, he was wise enough to blow a well-planned stalk, so I carefully waited on them to make the next move. Barely an hour had passed when the younger buck stood up to stretch and feed, and a few minutes later his bigger brother followed suit. Both paid little attention above and slowly began feeding through the brush towards a large alpine opening. In my mind, I needed them 15 steps closer to give me a solid 60-yard shot, and when they fed into the opening, it looked as though my hopes were going to come true. Like bucks often do, they fed up the side hill, directly towards my rocky hide, and with each step closer, my anticipation mounted. Checking the range finder one last time...58 yards...I waited on him to turn before pressing my bow into service.

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High-up vantage points are important for spotting deer across big-basin country. Be sure you're in position near first light.

OVERCOMING FAILURE Failure is another mental concern that can bring even the best of bowhunters to their knees. Regardless of age, consistently failing to make the shot, complete a successful stalk or punching a tag has caused many aspiring bowhunters to throw in the towel. I have seen failure become such a mental hump that they become afraid to even try again, doubting their own abilities. The only way to prevent or overcome this mental hump is to keep trying. Every bowhunter goes through dry spells, but when you understand that success is just over the next ridge or down in the next valley, it will keep failure fatigue from taking root and causing the dry spell to stretch out longer. —B.S.

Like I had done 1,000 times in the off season, I drew my bow in one fluid motion and settled my 60-yard pin. I was rock solid at first, but when the mountain breeze quickly licked the back of my neck, I knew the opportunity would vanish in a flash. Before I could think about it, my bow de-flexed, sending the arrow rocketing through the thin mountain air. I didn’t know if the arrow hit him at first; I guess the steep angle made my arrow trajectory look different. But when the younger buck was the only one I saw going up the other side of the valley, I knew the arrow had found its mark. Regardless of the game you’re after or where the adventure takes you, there are many aspects to a successful bowhunt. But when it comes down to consistent success, perhaps there is nothing more critical than having a beginning-to-end game plan, and this is especially true when your goal is to put a sneak on an unsuspecting mule deer buck. Whether your mule deer dream hunt takes place in the Nebraska Sandhills, or on some out-of-the-way jagged Rocky Mountain range, preparation is the main ingredient if you expect to notch your tag at the end of the hunt. Fact is, failing to plan is ultimately planning to fail! Alberta resident John Fletcher operates Straight Arrow Outfitters (www.straightarrowoutfitters.ca) in southeast Alberta and like any experienced mule deer hunter, he’d be the first to tell you that planning is the foundation to consistent mule deer success.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

“Every detail must be addressed and mistakes have to be virtually non-existent when you stalk within 100 yards of an old mule deer buck,” explained John, “and if you expect to get into bow range, your plan has to be flawless.”

Starting Point Without question, the first ingredient to having a solid mule deer plan is research. In fact, some would even suggest that a successful hunt starts and ends with such details. I know that I have personally wandered into the woods haphazardly, hoping to stumble upon antlered good fortune. More times than not the only thing I stumbled upon was my truck at the end of the hunt with little success to show for it. It’s no secret, in today’s information age the best research is found on the web, and your first stop should be on the various state game and fish websites. They offer a plethora of information, from general info about the mule deer opportunities found in their state, to specific, finite details about every region you could possibly hunt. With just a few clicks of the mouse, you can find population densities, buck-to-doe ratios, past-hunter success and deer distributions in specific areas. My home state of Colorado even provides “hunt planners” that compile detailed maps, updated satellite views, deer summer feeding areas, specific migration corridors and wintering

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grounds. When understood in its entirety, this information lays more than just the ground work to your hunt. Internet research also allows you to connect with other hunters through websites, bulletin boards, blogs, articles, etc. I have personally met several hunters on line, many of which I consider friends today, that were very helpful. They didn’t tell me their “sweet spots,” but they did point me in the right direction, which was all I needed to get started. Perhaps the best resources are area wildlife biologists and game wardens. These guys and gals have a lot of information by spending countless hours in the field documenting studies, improving habitat and conducting herd surveys. They want hunters to be successful, and over the years I have found them to be extremely helpful. Again, they will not share with you the sweet spots, nor would I want them to, but often times they will provide specific areas

in which to dig deeper. They appreciate the hunter who is willing to scout and hunt hard, so expressing those desires to them will typically reveal even more critical information.

Getting in the Game Regardless of what you read or hear, Google Earth cannot replace old fashion boots-on-theground scouting. Don’t get me wrong, there is a place for such technology in the research and scouting process. It’s no doubt a very efficient way to get a bird’s eye view of vast areas and should be used to note terrain and cover features like a specific drainage, ridge, mountain or valley offers. But when it’s all said and done, spending time actually scouting will yield much greater dividends. When done right, it will not only eliminate poor areas you would have spent time in during your hunt, but it will obviously give you the opportunity to find specific areas in which bucks tend to concentrate.

Whether your mule deer dream hunt takes place in the Nebraska Sandhills, or on some out-of-the-way jagged Rocky Mountain range, preparation is the main ingredient....

Big buck or small, public-land mule deer hunting always provides a rewarding adventure.

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Scouting is no doubt tough and time consuming, and if you live a great distance from where you plan to hunt, it can be nearly impossible. But even if it only takes place a day or two before the opener, or just a few days sprinkled throughout the weeks leading up to the hunt, it could be the most important decision of the season, especially if it’s an area you have never hunted. From my own personal experience, scouting has led to more punched tags than tag soup. When scouting, understand that a mule deer buck is consumed with one thing—surviving, and they are masters at it. Regardless of whether you’re chasing these monarchs across the western Great Plains in late November, or in nosebleed regions of the Rockies in late summer, for bucks to grow old they must have quality food, water and cover. Chances are, if any one of these elements is lacking, the area will be void of deer. With this in mind, note the types of food mule deer prefer in the region you are hunting. In the lowlands it could be crops, prairie grasses, CRP and other forbs; and in the inter-mountain regions and higher elevations, grasses, sagebrush, bitter brush, willows, mountain mahogany and other browse compose their diets. Water is obviously critical as well as suitable cover. Cover provides shelter from both predators and Mother Nature and, as the snow flies and temperatures drop, the thermal zones in pinion-juniper, heavy sagebrush and thick-creek bottoms become even more critical for survival. When these two elements are located near food, there’s a good chance it will be a hot spot for mule deer.

Mental Game It’s no secret, mule deer hunting can be physically tough. Even in lower elevations where oxygen is rich and the hills more rolling, it’s still a physically demanding hunt. Not only are you on your feet searching every nook and cranny trying to find a suitable buck to stalk, but once found, chances are a ground-crawling stalk is in order, which can take hours. Most of the time you’re left with only memories of your oncebedded prize bounding away, and then it’s back to the drawing board to start the whole process over again. At high elevations, this repetitive catand-mouse game wears you down even faster, so being in above-average shape is critically important. That being said, I have found that being in good mental shape is just as important. Sure, being in good shape can get you over the physical humps this style of bowhunt throws at you, but the mental humps can be far more defeating. Ashamedly, I have been mentally beat up in the mule deer woods more than once and it

Perhaps the most critical mind game you must overcome is not seeing game. caused me to head home early, regretting that I had even tried in the first place. Perhaps the most critical mind game you must overcome is not seeing game. There is nothing more defeating than spending days in the woods without a glimpse of tan hide. You know they are there, pre-season scouting and fresh sign revealed as much, but for whatever reason they have been swallowed up temporarily. The first few days you can deal with it, but once days four and five hit, you start to break. The only way to keep from being beat down mentally is to stick with it, change your plan and tell yourself that it’s only a matter of time. Patience is ultimately a bowhunter’s best friend and when you realize that it only takes one opportunity to end a hunt with a punched tag, and that it can happen at any moment, it will keep you in the game mentally. Lastly, dealing with hunting pressure can also cause mental hang-ups. Fact is, most mule deer hunts happen on glorious public ground, and this is perhaps the greatest aspect of hunting in North America. On the other hand, it can take a mental toll on a hunter as well. In fact, it was seeing dots of hunter-orange sprinkled throughout a lost Colorado valley nearly two decades ago that caused me to leave the crowds and pick up the bow for the first time. Nothing can alter your focus as quickly as stumbling on another hunter in your area. It begins to play tricks on your mind, and you start blaming the interloper for your misfortunes. Before you know it, you drop your guard and lose focus, causing you to miss an opportunity. The only way to mentally deal with hunting pressure is to get away from it completely. This may force you to un-scouted areas and even locations with less game, but knowing that you are alone will keep you focused, giving you the ability to capitalize when the opportunity presents itself. When it comes down to it, beating the mental mind game is all about focus, determination and attitude; and when you incorporate these into a solid mule deer plan, success is truly found just over the next ridge.

Nearly all mulie country is rugged and expansive, and carrying a large daypack worth of food, water, hunting essentials (game bags, rope, GPS, etc.) and survival gear is vital for hunting hard, effectively, and safe.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

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KILLER SIGHTS & ARROW RESTS TODAY'S ADD-ONS ARE GETTING BETTER AND BETTER, THANKS TO ADVANCES IN MATERIALS, CRAFTSMANSHIP AND DESIGN. By Brian Strickland

DEADLY AIMERS Apex Gear Covert Series Offering everything a single-pin sight aficionado would desire, the new Covert Series is a jewel that incorporates the Versa-Pin and Quick-Change Pin technologies. These technologies not only allow the shooter to change pin color (green, red and yellow) to make sure you have the brightest pin in changing light conditions, but it also lets the hunter change the pin diameter from .010 to .019 in the blink of an eye. Adjustable second- and thirdaxis are engineered into the Covert, as well as a large thumb wheel for easy range adjustment and a glow-in-the-dark shooter’s ring to make sure peep and sight alignment are true. You really can’t go wrong with the Covert Series from Apex. www.apex-gear.com

Apex Gear's Covert Series

Archer Xtreme AXT Rouge

Archer Xtreme's AXT Rouge

Light, dependable and durability were incorporated into the new Rouge. Integrating titanium and carbon, this “warrior built” sight sports a rugged but lightweight exterior and features ultra-fine micro adjustment knobs for windage and elevation. Center Core Technology encapsulates and protects the .019-inch fiber optic pins from damage, and an added Micro LED increases visibility during those all-important dwindling-light hours. The bright red two-inch Sight Ring helps to provide torque-free sight alignment, and its full second- and third-axis adjustment capabilities will keep the shots in the 10-ring, regardless of the shooting condition. The Rouge is sure to be a game changer this season. www.archerxtreme.com

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

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Axcel ArmorTech-HD Pro With multiple pin configurations available, as well as pin sizes, versatility undoubtedly best describes the ArmorTech HD Pro. Offering shooters a simple but accurate third-axis level adjustment built right into the sight bubble, shooting at odd angles is never a problem. Plus its Individual Micro-Pin Adjustment technology also allows the shooter to zero in each pin. Add to this the ArmorTech’s universal quiver mount and the durable, user-friendly tool-less windage and elevation thumb locks, and you’ll never have to worry about sight malfunctions in the field again. www.axcelsights.com Axcel's ArmorTech-HD Pro

Black Gold Pure Gold 75

Black Gold's Pure Gold 75

Packed with innovation, the new Pure Gold 75 offers both multi-pin and single-pin functionality, while maintaining the same qualities Black Gold enthusiasts have come to expect. Designed from 7075 Aluminum Alloy, this five-pin sight comes with eight clicks per inch micro-gain windage and vertical adjustment, and its Skycoil and Photo Chromatic technologies ensure the pins offer the ideal brightness in virtually any light conditions. Equipped with first- secondand third-axis adjustments, the Pure Gold 75 also has micro-adjust bombproof pins, a 30-percent larger clamping dovetail and floating pin bushing that provide smooth and easy fine-tuning capabilities. As the manufacturer proclaims, this new sight just might be “the gold standard in premium bowsight performance and innovation.” You be the judge. www.blackgoldsights.com

Custom Bow Equipment Tek-Hybrid Dovetail A competition-inspired hunting sight that offers 5-, 3- and 1-pin configurations, the Tek-Hybrid Dovetail was enhanced this year and performs even better than previously. It sports an improved Armed Guard Fiber Management System to ensure brightness and durability, and its 4-point Rapid Drive knob and rear-facing sight tape promise a good grip and quick adjustment in the field. Topping it off is its fully machined aluminum construction, third-axis leveling, micro adjustability and Stay Tight design that utilize Delrin tracks to keep everything slop- and rattle-free. www.custombowequipment.com

Custom Bow Equipment's Tek-Hybrid Dovetail

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Copper John TST Known for its insightful sight design and superb quality, Copper John once again pushed the envelope with its new Torque Synchronizing Technology Sight. Touted as “the only sight specifically engineered to increase your bowhunting accuracy” by the manufacturer, the TST is unique in that it mounts between the buss cables and riser, backwards when compared to traditional sights. This unique setup puts the sight in line with the rest, virtually eliminating torque. Other features of the TST include micro-adjustable windage and elevation. It has fullyintegrated second- and third-axis adjustments and comes in 3 and 5 ultra bright pin variations. www.copperjohn.com Copper John's TST

Fuse Archery Helix Series

Fuse Archery'sHelix Series

G5 Outdoors Optix XR2 With versatility, quality and functionality at its core, the Optix XR2 features one Smart fixed-pin, and one Smart hybrid floating pin, making it ideal for those slam-dunk 20 yard shots in the whitetail woods or when you need to expand your range out west. The top fixed-pin Smart Pin is designed to allow hunters to adjust the pin without it ever deviating from the centerline of the sight, and the hybridfloating pin gives hunters more range adjustment and dialto-the-yard accuracy. Also pleasing is the 3X micro-adjustments, third-axis tuning, corrosion-resistant components and built-in Harmonic Damper. www.g5outdoors.com

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

A longtime leader in archery equipment innovation, quality and design, Fuse once again turned heads when they trumpeted their new Helix Series sights. Not only are these handsome sights tough and accurate, but they are equipped with the innovative Stealth Band Technology which eliminates shock, vibration and unwanted noise. These microadjust sights feature Micro-Click Adjustment Knobs that allow you to hear and feel each click to ensure fine-tune adjustment, high-strength Precision Steel Pins with pinpoint .019-inch fiber optics, and a fiber optic light that ensures pin brightness in any condition. The Helix Micro is available in Realtree Xtra and Black Out in 3-, 5- and 7-pin configurations. The Helix Standard is available in Black 3- and 5-pin configurations. www.fusearchery.com

G5 Outdoors' Optix XR2

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HHA Sport Optimizer Lite Ultra Always on the forefront of single-pin technology, quality and performance, the Optimizer Lite Ultra is machined from rugged but light aircraft grade aluminum and offers shooters total toolless micro adjustability. Its A.R.M.O.R sight pin is bombproof and offers solid protection for the nearly five feet of bright green fiber optic. HHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talked-about patented tape system offers easy setup and downrange accuracy; all the shooter needs to do is sight the bow in at two distances and then select one of the 52 color-coded tapes to place on the exclusive smooth-to-adjust dial wheel.

HHA Sport's Optimizer Lite Ultra

www.hhasport.com

Known for its insightful sight design and superb quality, Copper John once again pushed the envelope with its new Torque Synchronizing Technology Sight.

Trijicon AccuPin Deeply rooted in single-pin lore and recently enhanced, the AccuPin sports a larger, highly-visible sight level, and a nylon patch has been added to all adjustment screws for greater security and easier adjustment. At the heart of this innovative sight is its triangular aiming point and clear pin. With zero MOA (minute of angle) and zero obstructions, this sight is sure to help you bring home the headbone. www.trijicon.com

Trijicon's AccuPin

JULY/AUGUST 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ BOW ARROW HUNTING

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Trophy Ridge React-One Incorporating sophisticated single-pin technology, the new React-One is another member to the highly acclaimed React family of sights. This innovative single-pin marvel is constructed from 100-percent durable aluminum and offers shooters second- and third-axis adjustment, 100-percent tool-less micro-adjustment, multiple mounting holes for increased versatility and a bright .019 fiber optic pin. With its unique React Technology, all a shooter needs to do is simply sight in at 20 and 30 yards and the remaining yardage markers will be dead-on out to 100 yards. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get much easier or accurate than this! www.trophyridge.com

Trophy Ridge's React-One

Truglo Rival Hunter Series Never disappointing, the new Rival Hunter series is sure to get the attention of both new and experience bowhunters alike. Strong, dependable and innovative, the Rival Hunter is equipped with a stainless steel tube pin design that protects the fiber optics and has the unique soft-to-the-touch TruTouch coating. Its patented DDP Technology provides decreasing pin diameters for longer distances which gives you a better view of the target. The Rival Hunter also sports second-axis adjustments, LED light for pin illumination and etched windage and elevation marks making sight adjustment a breeze. www.truglo.com

Truglo's Rival Hunter Series

BOW ARROW HUNTING â&#x20AC;˘ JULY/AUGUST 2014

A continued leader in the archery rest genre, AAE once again is raising the bar with the DOA.

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ARROW RESTS Archer Xtreme Titanium Recon Busting onto the bowhunting scene several years ago with epic archery sights, Archer Xtreme now turns the page with the much heralded Titanium Recon. Developed from a blend of titanium and carbon, this rest truly does live up to its “warrior built” slogan. Not only is it designed to be both tough as nails and near-feather light, but the geniuses at AXT teamed up with Arizona Archery to incorporate DOA tight trigger tolerances and launcher arm technologies to create a flawless, extremely accurate arrow rest. Plus, with its Adapter Plug System, this top-notch rest fits virtually any compound bow. www.archerxtreme.com

Archer Xtreme's Titanium Recon

Arizona Archery Enterprises DOA A continued leader in the archery rest genre, AAE once again is raising the bar with the DOA. This smooth, fast, quiet and flawless full-capture drop-away rest delivers devastating downrange accuracy. Engineered with one of the industry’s tightest tolerances, the DOA employs a unique launcher arm that stays up while drawing your bow and will only lay down when the trigger is pulled. Upon release the launcher stays up for nearly three-quarters of the arrow’s length before quickly and silently tripping down. This gives the arrow superb stability and arrow flight, while at the same time provides complete fletch clearance. Wwvw.arizonaarchery.com Arizona Archery Enterprises' DOA

G5 Outdoors CMax Renowned for top quality archery products, G5 once again draws lookers with the new CMax archery rest. Offering 360 degrees of containment and designed from a durable all-metal frame, this drop-away rest is activated either by a push button system or drawing your bow. The launcher arm’s extended arrow contact improves arrow flight and accuracy, and it quickly and quietly falls away, allowing virtually any fletch configuration to fly untouched. With over one inch of windage and vertical adjustment, and its quick five-minute set up, you’ll be dropping arrows into the sweet spot before you know it.

G5 Outdoors' CMax

www.g5outdoors.com JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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Hamskea Archery Solutions Full Capture Micro Tune Versa Rest It’s hard to improve upon an already good thing, but the folks at Hamskea took the bull by the horns and did just that with the new Full Capture Micro Tune Versa Rest. Built like a battleship but performing like a Swiss watch, the full capture model still offers the same versatile and tune-ability that turned top tournament shooters and bowhunters when it first exploded onto the scene a few years ago. Incorporating their buffered pull cable that eliminates launcher rebound, the Versa Rest can still be configured as a limb or cable activated fall-away rest, and comes standard with the Accu-Guide launcher and the Containment Launcher. The no-slip leverage arm offers eight positions for maximum versatility and the new containment bracket is made of 30-percent glass-filled nylon material that is extremely strong. www.hamskeaarchery.com

Hamskea Archery Solutions' Full-Capture Micro Tune Versa Rest

Ripcord S.O.S. Built on the superior foundation of the popular and original Ripcord Code Red rest, the S.O.S is a limb-driven rest that features a delayed fall-away launcher. This delay is specifically designed for longer arrow-to-rest contact which provides stellar downrange accuracy. Its DropDead internal brake system eliminates bounce back for complete fletch clearance, and the soft over-molding on the launcher is whisper quiet from start to finish. To put it bluntly, the S.O.S. is a full-containment rest that is a quiet, tack-driving arrow rest which is a breeze to tune and setup.

Ripcord's S.O.S.

www.ripcordarrowrest.com

Trophy Ridge Revolution 2.0 When the original Revolution hit the shelves a few years ago, its “revolutionary” design drew the attention of countless bowhunters, and this year it’s sure to do the same with the revamped Revolution 2.0. Built around the success of its predecessor, the windage and elevation components were beefed up for added strength and dependability, and laser-engraved reference marks were added for moreprecise tuning. The launcher arm was also enhanced and strengthened, and not only can it be customized with an array of colors, but they provide more vane clearance than before. Once the launcher arms are engaged, the arrow remains locked and loaded until released, giving you the confidence to concentrate on your shot, not the arrow. Once released, the locking arms swing 90 degrees giving total fletch clearance. Bounce-back is not a problem either. Trophy Ridge's Revolution 2.0

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

www.trophyridge.com

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Trophy Taker SmackDown Pro Their most popular rest the last few years has been enhanced to provide even more bone-crushing accuracy. Not only has the SmackDown Pro had a sleek, cosmetic facelift this season, but it also has a beefed up windage and elevation adjustment system to ensure easier setup. Still providing the all-metal ruggedness and superb accuracy hunters have come to expect from the SmackDown, it also features a fast-action fall-away stainless steel launcher, axle pivot on super-smooth bearings and an advanced clasp and activation cord that can be attached to either the upper or lower limb, or the up buss cable. The full-containment ring has a bristle-guard side-loading slot and built-in launcher dampeners to keep hush-quiet. www.trophytaker.com

Trophy Taker's SmackDown Pro

TruGlo Down Draft A pioneer in the archery and outdoor industry, Truglo once again sets the pace with the new Down-Draft dropaway containment rest. Easy to setup, this rest has sealed bushings that increase downward speed at launch, and full windage and elevation adjustments with laser-engraved reference marks to enable the shooter to fine tune arrow accuracy. This all-metal arrow rest provides maximum vane clearance, no bounce-back return, and the rubber-coated containment arm keeps noise to a hush when loading and releasing the arrow. www.truglo.com

TruGlo's Down Draft

• 1.7 × .460-inch—perfect for 3D and mechanical broadheads • Made with AAE’s super tough Max material • Pre-applied primer and activator • Available in eight colors

ArizonaArchery.com • 928-772-9887

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

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He came right down to the stream and started drinking.

The author and his giant public-land buck. The deer gross scores an incredible 196 2/8 points.

BOW ARROW HUNTING â&#x20AC;˘ JULY/AUGUST 2014

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MARYLAND MONSTER

WHO SAID GIANT BUCKS AND PUBLIC LAND DON'T MIX? WELL, ON THIS SPECIAL OCTOBER DAY, THEY SURE DID. By Jason Lahti

When most people think of whitetails and public land, they often think of lots of hunters and so-so hunting. But, really, that hasn’t been my experience in my state of Maryland. I’ve had some great action hunting some of my local haunts. Two seasons back, I took a nice Pope and Young nine-pointer. However, last season was truly the icing on the cake–I arrowed the buck of a lifetime. Here’s how it all unfolded.

The First Time Three seasons ago, I caught a glimpse of a very big-bodied deer, only I didn’t make out his antlers very well. But even from that faint sighting, I knew he was pretty big. Then I saw him again, with the results being about the same–a passing glimpse without much detail. But the following season, he came by my ambush right at dusk, only 30 yards away. He was in the shadows. I could hear him, but I couldn’t see him. When I turned my head to look back at the sound, he caught my movement and bolted. That’s when I saw his big headgear. I was distraught and figured that would be the last time I ever got to see him. In the meantime, there were three other hunters that knew I was hunting

He stopped and I began to settle the 40-yard pin behind his shoulder. Then I squeezed the release's trigger. the buck and it was just a matter of time before I had company. However, before I knew it, the season was over and I’d have to wait before pursuing the buck once again.

Back in the Saddle Fortunately, time seemed to fly and I was back in my treestand again, hoping for another chance at the buck, or at least a glimpse of him as before. On October 28, my plan was to hunt, but I woke up with a nasty sinus headache. I lay in bed until I fell

asleep. At about noon, I was feeling better and decided I needed some “altitude therapy.” The only way I know to get altitude in Maryland is to climb a tree! I was at my parking spot at 2 p.m. I zipped on my Under Armour Scent Control clothing, grabbed my Darton bow and began walking. The walk is not too terribly far but you do have to go through some very thick and nasty brush to reach the stand. I meandered a bit once I reached the location. I wanted to select a new tree to hunt from. I finally found a nice one about 40 yards from my usual spot. I slowly got set up, then I began rattling at 2:45 p.m., but there was no response. I was overlooking a stream and some downfalls, but the tree I was in left me feeling pretty exposed. I used my rangefinder to acquire some shooting possibilities. Then I glassed my surroundings, looking for sign of rutting activity (rubs and scrapes). There was none that I could see. I did see two faint trails crossing over the creek, one on each side of me. I was facing north with a west/north/west wind. I settled in, pulled out my phone and started playing Solitaire.

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

BAH_1408_BUCK_special_M 5/1/14 3:57 AM Page 70

Time for Action At about 3:50 p.m., I could hear a deer trotting from the northeast side of my setup. He came right down to the stream and started drinking. He was about 45 yards away. I could faintly see the left side of his antlers as there were branches dangling across his head and chest from everywhere. But from the looks of things, he was surely a shooter with the minimum antler spread that was legal for the area I was hunting. I was hoping he’d eventually cross the creek on my side and offer a clear shot. I began to range some spots on my side of the creek, anticipating the possibilities. It would be about a 40-yard shot. About five minutes later, the buck began looking around and then jumped the creek and walked right into one of my shooting lanes. I was already ready for the shot, and I let out a short bleat to stop him. In the meantime, my heart was going crazy. He stopped and I began to settle the 40yard pin behind his shoulder. Then I squeezed the release’s trigger. The arrow flew true but he sprang at the sound of the bow, and the arrow struck a few inches back from where I was aiming. He ran, with the arrow still stuck in what I assumed was his offside shoulder. I heard the rustle of the leaves as he ran off a little ways, and then I heard what I thought was a crash but I wasn’t certain. With the impact of the arrow a little back, I figured I better give him about an hour before I went looking for blood. I waited and waited... but impatience and eagerness was just too overwhelming to take anymore. I eased down off my stand about 45 minutes later. I went straight to my truck to drop off my climbing stand and to grab my deer cart. It was a bit after 5 p.m.

The Search Begins While walking back, I came to a thick spot in the thicket, making it tough to get the cart through. So I left it and went straight to the hit site. I didn’t see any blood but wasn’t surprised, since the arrow didn’t make a clean pass-through. I walked about 10 yards farther and then began scanning the trees and brush. About 30 yards into the woods, I could see the deer laying dead. Yes, I thought. I was super excited.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

The buck ended up with 23 scoreable points, with a 23-inch outside spre ad and a 7-inch circumferen ce on the right side antler base.

I could hear him, but I couldn't see him. Instantly, I put my binoculars on him and began seeing all these weird stump-like things growing from his head. What is all that, I thought. I assumed he had some brush tangled around his head. He had gone 40 yards from where the arrow struck. I slowly headed in that direction and I slowly began to make out his antlers. “Oh my goodness,” was all I could think. I could not believe it! Here lay the biggest deer I had ever seen in the woods. I could not move...I was overcome with emotion. Happiness, sadness, disbelief, elation...I could go on and on. Most of all, I felt totally thankful to God for this special moment. After field dressing the deer, I began the task of pulling him out of the woods. What a chore! I was in some of the thickest brush I had ever hunted in and had to figure out how to drag him to my cart. As you can probably imagine, the tines wanted to dig into the ground, catch on roots, snag on passing brush and anything and everything else they could cling onto. Once on the cart, it took me more than two hours to go a ¼ mile to reach my truck. And then lifting him up into the truck was unbelievably difficult. On my way out, I had to stop at the mandatory check-in/check-out

hunter control station for this publicland area. There were three other hunters standing around, along with two officials. I told them right away that I had shot a deer. Instantly they began messing around, saying that they’d only check it in if it was big enough. “Oh,” I said, “I think it will just make 60 pounds,” the minimum required weight to donate it to charity. “Is it a buck?” he said. “Is it an eight or 10-point?” “No. It’s actually a 20-point,” I told them. And just as I did, they all rushed to the back of my truck. It was fun watching their jaws drop to the ground. This incredible deer ended up with 23 scoreable points, with a gross score of 196 2/8 inches. His net score was 183 6/8 inches, with a 23-inch outside spread and a 7-inch circumference on the right side antler base. He field dressed 135.9 pounds with an estimated 175-pound live weight. Yes, the deer in Maryland have relatively small bodies. Lastly, while I do not belong to the association, Quality Deer Management practices even work on public lands. This buck is all the proof anybody can ask for.

BAH_1408_71 4/30/14 4:15 AM Page 71

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BAH_1408_ROOS_adventure_M 5/1/14 4:17 AM Page 72

Elk

Roy K. Keefer

of the Northwest THIS BOWHUNTER HEADS TO THE DENSE WOODS OF NORTHERN OREGON IN PURSUIT OF AMERICA'S LARGEST-BODIED ELK.

This is how we spent a lot of our time glassing mountainsides for a trophy bull.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

BAH_1408_ROOS_adventure_M 5/1/14 4:17 AM Page 73

Roosevelt elk country is beautiful—vast, with thick forests and multiple clear-cuts. BELOW: These elk were seen by the author while glassing the mountains.

The arrow struck behind the front leg at mid chest, a perfect double-lung hit.

he bugle of a rutting bull elk is like no other sound in the wilds. We knew the sound we heard coming from the valley below meant that a bull was establishing his area for breeding and that we had to hurry to try to catch up with him. I was on a hunt for a Roosevelt elk in northern Oregon and this would probably be my one and only chance to pursue this elusive creature.

About the Roosevelt Elk

The Roosevelt is the largest of the elk family in body size; however, their horns are not generally as large. By comparison, the minimum score for the Pope & Young Club record book is 225inches for the Tule and the Roosevelt while the Rocky Mountain (American) elk minimum is 260 inches. The current world record Roosevelt scored more than 378 inches. A mature Roosevelt bull will weigh between 700 to 1,000 pounds.

They are found in Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and the Afognak and Raspberry Islands of Alaska. If you’ve hunted Roosevelts or know someone who has, they will tell you it’s a tough hunt. Many of the people I talked to consider it the most difficult elk sub-species to hunt. The terrain is mountainous and annually massive amounts of rainfall in their habitat produce thick vegetation which makes walking challenging.

land is that the number of hunters is limited. To have this privilege you have to pay a trespass fee. I chose to pay the fee believing it would improve my chance for success. Elk tags are sold over the counter so you don’t have to go through the drawing process most Western states use. I sent Ken my personal information and a check in advance and he had my license and permit ready for me when I arrived.

Selecting the Outfitter

Pre-Hunt Preparation

I’ve been fortunate to have killed an American elk in Arizona and a Tule elk in California, but I had never hunted the Roosevelt. As usual when trying to book a hunt with an outfitter, I do lots of homework, including talking to friends, outfitters and even wildlife officers in the area I’m considering. In this process one outfitter’s name came up many times, Spoon Creek Outfitters, which is owned by Ken Wilson. I’ve booked several successful hunts through Bowhunting Safari Consultants (Mark Buehrer, 800833-9777, www.bowhuntingsafari.com) so I gave Mark a call. Mark put me in touch with Ken and after talking to him I quickly felt he was the guy I wanted for my hunt. Ken offers hunts on public land or private land owned by timber companies. The advantage of the private

As I get older, I appreciate the need to get myself physically prepared for strenuous hunts. So I regularly went to the gym to build up my legs. Realizing that long shots were a possibility, I practiced to increase my effective range. And, of course, I went through the process of packing and repacking my gear to make sure nothing was overlooked.

The Hunt Begins The elk rut gets active in mid to late September in most states I’ve hunted, however, I was told the Roosevelt rut starts a little earlier. I figured that if I hunted early in the season, the bulls would be less spooky and more receptive to calling if they hadn’t been pressured by other hunters. Consequently, I decided to book for the first week of the season in late August. JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

BAH_1408_ROOS_adventure_M 5/1/14 4:17 AM Page 74

The author poses with a nice 5x5 bull, ending his quest to take all three species of elk in North America.

With diligence and by working the wind, we closed to within 40 yards of the bulls.... My wife, Shelby, and I drove to the north coast of Oregon expecting to be met with a deluge of rain, but, for a change weather was not going to be a factor in our hunt. The weather was nice when we arrived and stayed that way during the entire trip; that doesn’t happen often. We got to Ken’s place the day before the season opened so I was able to shot my bow and visit with Ken about the hunt. Shelby wanted to video the hunt and she spent time getting the camera ready to go. Ken said we would be hunting the way I prefer—spot and stalk. We would be glassing mountainsides and listening for bugles and then stalking within bow range. Ken described the terrain and it was what I expected— mountainous, steep and covered with dense vegetation and timber.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

We would be hunting only eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. One thing I found interesting was the abundance of Himalayan blackberry bushes. This blackberry is an invasive plant that is taking over much of the roadsides and lowlands; it is everywhere and virtually indestructible. The only redeeming feature of this plant is the large, delicious berry it produces.

Day One The night before the season opened a landowner called Ken to tell him about a herd of five bulls that were frequenting his property. We accepted his offer to try to tag one of the bulls. The next morning the sun was rising as we began to search the mountainsides for activity. It didn’t take long to spot two 5x5 bulls grazing midway up

a mountain. In order to take advantage of the wind, we got above them and worked our way downhill. As we got closer, the bulls seemed to sense something was not right and stopped eating. Ken whispered in my ear, “60 yards.” I drew my bow, put the 60-yard pin on the bull and squeezed the trigger on my release—too late. The bull moved to my left and the arrow hit the dirt behind him. Although I was disappointed, I realized this was the first morning of the hunt and hoped more opportunities would come my way. The rest of the day was not productive.

Day Two We returned to the same area and again found the small bachelor herd of five bulls at the bottom of a ravine. With diligence and by working the

BAH_1408_ROOS_adventure_M 5/1/14 4:17 AM Page 75

wind, we closed to within 40 yards of the bulls as they fed on some bushes in a ditch. I stood on one side of the ditch, ranged the distance many times and watched the bulls for several minutes, but they never offered a shot before they turned and walked off. No other bulls were spotted that day. When we returned to camp, we learned that another bowhunter, Frank Kusler from Pennsylvania, had connected on a nice bull. This was Frank’s third try for a Roosevelt and everyone was glad for his success.

Day Three Ken needed to prepare for another hunter who was coming to camp and Ross Morris was selected to guide us. Ross is a young, energetic guy who has hunted elk most of his life and knows what he’s doing in the woods. He thought it was best to give the timber company land a try since he and Frank had seen several bulls there the day before. Throughout the morning we searched the mountains on foot and in the truck. Midday we heard an elk bugling near a mountaintop. We circled around so we could hunt into the wind and moved toward the bull. Finally we made it to the edge of the pine thicket containing the bull and his harem. Although we could hear them, we only caught an occasional glimpse of them as they moved between the trees. And then the inevitable happened: The wind changed and they were gone. We saw some other elk that day but we weren’t able to make any more stalks.

toward the right, while I watched to the left and straight ahead of us toward the top center of the clear cut. Over the next few minutes, Ross would bugle and the bull would answer. Each time he seemed to be a little closer. And then I saw an elk at the top of the clear cut moving toward us. I knew it was not the bull we had been trying to call in to us, because he had just answered off to my right in the timber. Initially I didn’t see any antlers, but as it got closer I could see he was a respectable 5x5 bull. Ken and Ross had told me that it wasn’t unusual for a bull to come in silently and that was the case with this bull. He moved slowly from the top of the clear cut to my left, never uttering a sound. I began to get ready for a shot as he moved closer. I attempted to range some spots but my rangefinder wouldn’t work. After a couple of attempts I laid it down and tried to guess some

distances. The bull stopped and stood broadside as I pulled the bow. “Fifty yards,” I silently said to myself and shot. The arrow passed under his chest and scooted along the ground. The bull skipped back a couple of steps and started to leave when Ross bugled again prompting the bull to change direction and move back to my left. I quickly nocked another arrow, drew and thought, “This time it’s really 50 yards.” And this time I was right. The arrow struck behind the front leg at mid chest, a perfect double-lung hit. He ran 75 yards and collapsed at the edge of the clear cut not far from where I stood. As I knelt to admire my bull I saw that my first arrow had actually cut through the skin between the leg and chest. My good fortune was the culmination of another memorable hunting experience and the completion of my attempt to take all three elk species.

Day Four Because the prior day had been so productive we returned to the same timber company land. The morning was spent much like the prior. We struggled to get through the downfalls and clear cuts but failed to see any elk in the morning. Throughout the day we moved from one area to another with no luck. Later in the day we stopped near a clear cut to watch and listen. In the distance from the thick timber we heard the unmistakable sound of a bull bugling off to our right. Ross said he would set up near the center of the oval -haped clear cut and try to call the bull to us. Shelby and I would go to the right side of the clear cut and intercept the bull if he came to Ross’ calls. We set up near a huge pine tree with Shelby and her camera pointed

TIPS FOR THE HUNT Although elk tags can be

bought over the counter, outfitters are usually booked more than a year in advance. It’s a good idea to put a deposit on a hunt as soon as you can. Good rain gear is an important item to have when hunting the Roosevelt. We had exceptionally good weather, but it rains a lot in western Oregon. Comfortable, water proof boots with good ankle support are a must. You’ll need it walking through the clear cuts. Quiet camo clothing is recommended. —R.K.

My guide Ross Morris is an avid bowhunter. Here he’s showing his young son his skills.

JULY/AUGUST 2014 • BOW ARROW HUNTING

BAH_1408_STICK_M.CX 5/1/14 4:39 AM Page 76

STICKBOWS

BY DENNY STURGIS, JR.

BOWHUNTING RABBITS Walking the woods and stalking small game could be the best hunting experience around.

Joe Bell called me several weeks ago and the subject of small-game hunting came up. Both of us have done a lot of small-game hunting at various times in our lives, mainly during our early years of bowhunting, but in recent years, we both reflected on how we’ve done very little. “Do you think you were sharper back then and more familiar with your gear?” Joe asked. After considering this for a moment, I answered: “yes.” Of course, the reasons most of us don’t spend that much time in pursuit of small game anymore are due to our jobs and family responsibilities. I also think most of us spend an inordinate amount of time planning our next big-game trip that we simply forget about the simple pleasures and skill benefits that come from a day of pursuing small game. Anyways, after talking with Joe, I decided I’d get out and spend more time hunting small game again.

Fun, Fun Cottontail rabbits are common where I live, and one of the best times to hunt them is right after the close of archery deer season.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

The author loves hunting small game like cottontail rabbits, particularly after the close of deer season. It's not only a great way to have fun and hone your shooting skill, but it's also a great opportunity to scout for next year's deer-hunting spots.

BAH_1407_77 4/29/14 12:27 AM Page 77

Woodland Hunter Versatility Precision Silence Strength

the hunt is on t 3JWFST"SDIFSZ DPN t

BAH_1408_STICK_M.CX 5/1/14 4:39 AM Page 78

{STICKBOWS}

I took a couple hours last week and tromped around on one of my favorite whitetail hunting spots in search of rabbit dinner. The knee-deep snow provided a gym-quality workout, too. There was a lot of rabbit sign—tracks, droppings and sumac trees with the bark chewed off, but they were mostly holed up. When hunting by myself, I wear binoculars and scan the heavy brush for sitting bunnies. I walked by one without noticing it under a fallen limb, and it ran floundering away through the fluffy top snow. I didn’t get a shot, but I did confirm that my treestands on that end of the farm were in prime location based on the deer runs cut in the snow, which were all funneling by the stand setups, all within good shooting range. I trudged along, noting areas with good rabbit sign that I would return to on a day with better weather. When hunting in deep snow, I always carry some surveyor’s tape. If I lose an arrow shaft in the snow, I tie it on a nearby piece of brush and can usually find the arrow easily after the snow melts.

Remembering a Past Hunt Hunting rabbits with a good beagle can be exciting, and it’s enjoyable to watch the dogs work, but most of the time my hunts are solo or with a buddy. I stopped to glass into a fencerow briar patch and remembered hunting there decades ago with my buddy Gary Smith…

Six inches of snow muffled my footsteps as I eased along the edge of the brushy fencerow glancing to the other side. I watched my partner, Gary, or Smitty, as we call him, working the edge of the cover like a bird dog. When Smitty went on point, I prepared for a possible shot as a cottontail burst from a briar clump several feet in front of him. The rabbit angled toward me, then turned and raced up a narrow runway going straight away. My 100pound longbow came up smoothly and launched a shaft after the fleeing bunny. At 20 yards, the blunt-tipped arrow caught the rabbit in the back of the head. My jaw dropped as the bunny skidded to a dead stop. I whipped my head around to see if my buddy had been my witness to one of my finest shots to date. “Man, I hope you saw that!” I exclaimed. “Did you hit it?” Smitty teased. After letting me agonize for several seconds, he broke into a grin and said, “Yes, I saw it. Heck of a shot!” Smitty was a good hunting buddy of my dad’s years before I was born. Neither he nor dad gets around like they used to. I sure wished we could still all tromp through deep snow and spend a few more winter days hunting rabbits together.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

This shows the Hammer point from 3 Rivers Archery. It's one of the author’s favorite head s for small game. However, th ere are other great heads on th e market as well, inclu ding the popu lar Judo Point, among othe rs.

I continued my quest to the north of the farm and came up on a thick area with multi-flora rose clumps and raspberry brambles. The area was littered with M&M shaped droppings and cut up with tracks. I lifted my binocular and inspected the thicker spots and shadowed holes. I spotted a patch of rabbit fur tucked under a multi-flora rose bush about 15 yards away. I eased forward until I found a narrow lane pretty much free of stems. After anchoring the bow, I aimed and sent a “hammer” tipped shaft down the lane and collected a delicious trophy along with a boost of confidence. I think making a good shot on small game is one of the reasons Joe felt “sharper” when he took more time to pursue small game.

Gear to Choose I carry an assortment of arrows for rabbit hunting. With my heavy draw weight bows,

When hunting by myself, I wear binoculars and scan the heavy brush for sitting bunnies.

BAH_1408_STICK_M.CX.CXX 5/5/14 12:13 AM Page 79

{ADINDEX} JULY/AUGUST 2014

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BAH_1408_STICK_M.CX 5/1/14 4:40 AM Page 80

{STICKBOWS}

My 100-pound longbow came up smoothly and launched a shaft after the fleeing bunny. This is a photo of Rich Niblock, the author's good friend, and the author (right). When hunting during snow-fall, Sturgis recommends white cover suits, which help fool the eyes of small game, so you can effectively sneak in closer for a shot.

DYNAMITE RABBIT STEW

When I clean rabbits, I bone out all the meat into small pieces. That way there is no little, weird bones for the kids to freak out over. One of my favorite cooking recipes is done in a crockpot. I spray the crockpot with Pam and put in two chunked-up rabbits, potatoes, carrots, onion, mushrooms, celery or any other veggies that are around. Then I add two or three cans of Campbell’s condensed soup like cream of mushroom or chicken, beefy or golden mushroom or cheddar cheese, depending on the size of the pot. Then I'll add a can of water and some seasonings. Then I cook for about six hours on high, or 10 to 12 hours on low, and you’ll be a hero at suppertime with rabbit stew. —D.S.

most any small-game head will work fine. The Hammer, from 3 Rivers Archery, is one of my favorites though. It’s available in screw-on or glue-on in grain weights from 100 to 250. The sharp outer edges cut along with the blunt shocking power. The concave face helps prevent the arrow from burying under leaves and grass or sticking in trees. The Judo point is another favorite of mine. In grassy environments, it’s easily the best choice for not losing an arrow. Small-game hunting is more relaxed for me than big-game hunts. In areas with no rabbit sign, I start roving—shooting arrows at miscellaneous targets like stumps or brush clumps. This is probably another reason

why Joe believes small-game hunting is the perfect hunting primer for big game. You are out in the field wearing hunting clothes, taking practice shots in field conditions and getting exercise. I entered another area thick with cover and rabbit sign. Spruce trees, golden rod, briars and thorn apple grew in tangles. I recalled another past hunt in this area. It was years ago when the spruce trees were shoulder high. Rich Niblock, another long-time hunting buddy, and I hit a magic afternoon when the rabbits were out everywhere. Rich shot the bag limit of five, and I should have but ended up with three. Over the years Rich and I have

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

shared some memorable hunts for big game, but I don’t think we’ve had more fun than when we get together for a rabbit hunt. The spruce trees towered over me now. In fact, some were large enough to support a treestand and I found a spot with a ton of sign and the per-

fect spruce tree for a southwind stand for next year. If you haven’t tried bowhunting for rabbits or have backed off from this pastime in recent years, I invite you to check it out or renew your interest. It’s a great way to stay sharp and make some great memories all at the same time.

BAH_1408_SHOT_how_to_M_NEW.CX 5/5/14 12:20 AM Page 81

(Beginning on page 53)

today’s larger expandable heads really do provide a higher chance of recovery on a marginal hit. We never want to take marginal shots, but on deer and antelope-sized game, I have absolutely no qualms about taking a little harder quartering-away or slightly quartering-to shot on a relaxed animal that’s close. I think it’s foolhardy to talk about a maximum shot distance in terms of 25, 40 or 70 yards, whatever yours may be. Let’s say your personal maximum shot distance is 40 yards. Does that mean you will take every 40-yard shot you may be presented with? What if the wind is howling 40 mph? How about if there is grass or a small limb between you and your target? That predetermined range that you have in your head for the longest shot you’ll take is only relevant if all conditions involved in the hunting situation are perfect. We all know they rarely ever are.

With bowhunting, timing is everything. Sometimes you only have a one-shot window. Sometimes you can sense the animal is getting ready to leave. If you don’t have time to get the range, don’t have time to calm down or to comfortably anchor and settle before the shot, should you take the shot? Make sure you have cut enough shooting lanes and memorize them and range those areas as soon as you can during each sit. Even if it looks like you might get a better shot, take the first good shot you get. You never know when a sudden swirling wind or a coyote on the hunt will instantly change everything. Knowing the difference between a good shot at a calm animal and a bad one at a bad angle can make the difference between success and tag soup. When a good shot opportunity presents itself, calm down, pick a spot, anchor your sight pin and execute the best shot you know how. It’s that simple.

You must pay careful attention to the angle the deer is standing in relation to the angle the arrow will travel through its vitals.

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BAH_1408_TECHTIPS_M_82 5/4/14 11:02 PM Page 82

{TECH

tips}

BY BAH STAFF

Skinny Carbon Arrow manufacturers are slimming out carbon shafts to the highest degree. Here are four reasons why. strike the bull’s eye. This is why long-distance field shooters and Olympic competitors use nothing but the smallestdiameter carbon or carbon/aluminum shafts available.

Better Penetration

Jim Velasquez photo

We started with wood arrows, then Doug Easton brought us aluminum. This paved the way for aluminum/carbon shafts, again brought by Easton, and then carbon, which continues to dominate today. But carbon arrows have seen a lot of changes since their inception. From pultruded construction, to mid-diameter internalcomponent, to Easton SlimLine shafts, to now micro-diameter. Carbon is basically getting skinnier and skinnier. Currently, nearly every archery manufacturer offers some sort of micro-diameter carbon shaft. The reasons are simple. Ultra-small-diameter shafts buck the wind better, provide more centralized energy for deeper penetration, require less fletching for proper steerage, and they retain maximum velocity downrange. Performance wise, they

can’t be beaten. Here’s a quick rundown of these pluses.

Consistency Any long-distance archer will tell you, given all else is equal (spine consistency, weight, straightness), smallerdiameter arrows will outshoot wider-barreled shafts, certainly outside in the real world. It comes down to aerodynamics. Skinnier shafts provide less surface area for the wind to push against. This means the arrow is more stable in flight and is more likely to track straight to the target, drifting less. Whereas, thick-barreled shafts are “pushed” more by air, drifting them off plane and making them less likely to

Easton’s Deep Six Injexion arrow is touted as having “Focused Energy.” In a nutshell, this means the arrow’s axis of weight is more centralized, thereby creating more concentrated momentum or energy to the front of the arrow shaft. This maximizes the penetrating effect, while also creating less overall shaft surface area to reduce friction as it follows behind the path of the broadhead. This also makes it deadlier in heavy tissue or bone that tends to “clamp down” on the shaft, inhibiting penetration.

Less Fletching Since smaller shafts have a smaller axis of rotation, they will spin at a faster rate compared to standard shafts. This means that the faster the shaft spins, the greater the drag created by the fletching. With this being the case, you can actually use less fletching to maintain the same amount of broadhead control when compared to larger-diameter shafts. Again, this makes them have less side surface area for

greater performance in windy shooting conditions.

Maximum Energy Every bowhunter likes to talk about arrow speed and kinetic energy. But what’s most important for deep penetration, particularly on those 40-yard shots on elk, is downrange velocity. High kinetic energy at five feet will do you little good in the woods. What really counts is a midweight arrow shaft—one that “soaks up” most of the bow’s power—that will carry its weight more effectively downrange, giving you more energy return. With super lightweight arrows, energy is dissipated at a much higher rate. Now, with a micro-diameter arrow, this same energy-retaining capability is even higher, because there’s less air friction to slow the arrow down as it flies. This means that micro-diameter arrows—all else being equal (weight, fletching, broadhead type)—will fly faster and hit harder, downrange, compared to standard-type shafts. This adds up to a more overall killing power. If you haven’t tried today’s micro-diameter arrows, such as the Easton Injexion, Victory Archery VAP, Carbon Express Pile Drive Pass-Thru Extreme, or Gold Tip Kinetic, be sure you do. They offer extreme performance at every level.

New micro-diameter carbon arrows, such as Victory Archery’s VAP, offer the best of all worlds – greater consistency in the wind, faster arrow speed downrange, and deeper overall penetration. Give one a try.

BOW ARROW HUNTING • JULY/AUGUST 2014

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