On the stand.
About time!
After another uneventful hunt this morning, I picked out a leaf and took a practice shot. I hate to brag but I double-lunged it.
After most every morning hunt I try to take a practice shot. I find it’s a much different shot under field conditions than in my backyard. The point that was driven home by this shot was how much better it works for me to do a “pre-flight checklist” before taking the shot. Like Rod Jenkins says, “Is this shot arranged? Can I “commit” to this shot?” When all systems are go I pick a tiny aiming spot and “expand to conclusion”.
Easy to rush this process in the backyard when the only consequence to missing a shot is grabbing another arrow.
Shooting much better this afternoon. Need to remember the following keys:
– Keep a little more hook with string fingers from the beginning of the draw until conclusion.
– Once committed to the shot, remember to feel like pulling with the elbow to keep the back muscles engaged.
– Keep in mind the rotational draw.
Remember that while one arrow practice is great, it’s OK to shoot groups of three when working on something specific.
Shooting the old Tall Tines about everyday that I can’t hunt. Keeping track of the little form tid-bits.
Today I noticed I need more work keeping my string fingers from creeping forward. Also, need to remember to maintain back tension through the conclusion of the shot. Having to fight tendencies to let my fingers and/or shoulder creep forward. Causes shots to go left.
Still a little warm for October but at least the wind was down tonight. Slipped out back for about a 45 minute hunt. Had some deer move in from the bean field about 5 minutes past responsible shooting light and too much brush to identify.
October 1st is opening day of archery whitetail deer season here in Michigan. Although it is no where near the event of the November 15 firearm opener it does still begin official “hunting season” for most Michigan hunters. Everything is in full swing now: waterfowl, coon hunting, fall turkey, squirrel, rabbit, you name it.
I’ve had some success in the early season, the 8 point in a previous post was from October 2, 2011. However most bow openers are like today with temps way too warm for optimal deer movement. Today the wind was howling at 20 mph at times to make the conditions even less desirable. Never the less, I spent the last few hours of daylight in my favorite stand at the back side of my dad’s property. No runs, no hits, no errors but it felt great to gather all the gear up and get out there again.
This has really helped my shooting improve over the summer.