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EVEN DURING HIS prime, Tiger Woods had the occasional bad day when the ball just didn’t go where he wanted it to go. On those rare instances, his response was always the same—get back to basics. That’s the approach hunters need to take with wingshooting. We all go through periodic slumps when we just can’t hit the target, and when that happens, the surest way to get back on track is to focus on the fundamentals of proper shooting form. Here’s what you need to consider to start putting more birds in the game bag again.

Finding The Stance

AS WITH GOLF, the prospects of making a successful shot are pretty slim if your stance isn’t sound and balanced. You should stand so that your lead foot (the left foot for righthanded shooters) is placed slightly ahead of your other foot, pointing just ahead of where you expect to hit the bird. This foot holds most of your body weight and provides balance, encouraging a smooth swing and followthrough; if you don’t have your lead foot positioned correctly, you also risk running out of room to swing or follow-through. Once you’ve positioned your feet properly, swivel your head and torso back towards the bird and prepare to mount your shotgun.

Mounting The Gun

RESIST THE TEMPTATION to mount your shotgun too early, instead allowing your eyes to focus on the bird before you start your mount. As you lock in on the bird, swing with the target and begin mounting your gun with the muzzle parallel to the bird’s path. Mounting should be one smooth movement, using both hands equally as you stand straight and lift the gun to your shoulder. Don’t lower or tilt your head to the stock; the gun should come up to your cheek and be fully mounted as you determine the appropriate lead.