Challenges of Hunting With a Bow and Arrow

Bowhunting presents a number of challenges. However, there are three special challenges that set it apart from hunting with modern firearms.

• Before attempting to hunt with a bow and arrow, bowhunters first should become proficient archers, which requires dedication, practice, and the development of distance-judging skills.
• Bowhunting is done at a much closer range than rifle hunting. Therefore, it often requires a higher degree of stealth and sheer effort to get into position to make the shot (similar to fly fishermen among anglers).
• Bowhunters must become adept at scouting, tracking, and recovering game, all of which takes perseverance and patience.

While these challenges may be too great for some, many find that these elements add to the pleasure of hunting. Bowhunting is a unique emotional experience because you are so close to the game.

Along with the special satisfaction that bowhunting offers comes the responsibility to achieve a quick, clean, and humane kill. Therefore, it is critical that bowhunters master bowhunting techniques and learn the anatomy and behavior of the game hunted.