Education

Hunting season is upon us, so now is the perfect time to brush up on your bowhunting knowledge. This sport has been growing in popularity in recent years, with more and more hunters choosing bows over firearms. Here's what you need to know to be ready to get started right away during hunting season.

Getting Started 

If you plan on bowhunting this fall, it is important to start with a solid foundation in the basics. Start out with a safety course to ensure you follow the proper rules and etiquette guidelines for your trip to the field. In Ohio a Hunter Safety Course is a requirement for getting a hunting license and is a great idea to ensure your safety and that of those around you. 

Choosing Your Bow 

There are nearly as many hunting bow styles on the market today as there are hunters looking to use them. However, what is right for someone else may or may not be right for you. Take the time to try out several different options in terms of size, draw, weight and speed to determine the best bow for your size and abilities. The archery experts here at Norton Sporting Goods can assist you in this area and help you with maintenance in the future.

Practice, Practice, Practice 

Now that you have your bow in hand, the next step is to work on your marksmanship. Bowhunting requires you to shoot precisely in order to dispatch the animal quickly so that the kill is as humane as possible. Visit a local shooting range to hone your skills in advance of hunting season so that you are ready to go on opening day. Even if you are an experienced archer, your skills may have gotten a bit rusty in the offseason. 

Stock Up on Essential Gear 

Bowhunting requires more than just a bow and some arrows. Deer and other animals have highly developed eyes and noses, so you need to do everything you can to camouflage yourself. You'll need to blend in with your surroundings, and you don't want your scent to give you away. In addition to wearing camouflaging clothing, you'll also want to have a scent-reducing spray. A facemask and gloves can be helpful as well. 

For your arrows, invest in some good broadheads. These will help your arrows follow a truer path and will also make it easier to take down larger animals. Bring along an Allen wrench as well in case you need to make any adjustments to your bow in the field. Finally, a rangefinder can take the guesswork out of evaluating your range, making it easier to set up your shots. 

At Norton Sporting Goods, we've got all the gear you need to give yourself the best chance of success this hunting season. Our associates are always happy to answer your questions and offer helpful tips. Stop by and see us today!