Consider Your Location

The bowhunter’s location above or below the target presents additional considerations.

Above the Target

A tree stand or elevated platform offers good shot opportunities, especially for the broadside and quartering-away shot angles.
As a bowhunter climbs higher, the vital area becomes a smaller target area because the animal’s shoulder bone and spine shield more of the vital organs.
The shooter needs to “bend at the waist” and not drop the bow arm while at full draw. Often the reason a hunter misses when shooting from above is because the point of aim and impact has changed.

It’s possible to shoot from below the target, but it’s not a high-percentage shot—especially while Dall sheep or mountain goat hunting.
The aiming spot is lower on the body, and the sternum (chest bone) may shield part of the heart at this angle.
Broadside—particularly a double-lung shot—and quartering away offer the best shots.