Bowhunting season is fast approaching. Are you sure you're ready.

Each year, as I get ready for archery season, I observe people at the range that go out and sight in their bow and think they are ready to go. This is only the beginning.

Most people DO NOT shoot enough. Archery is a sport of repetition. ANY little change in form will result in a marginal hit. That is if your bow is in fact sighted in properly. If not you are hoping for a clean miss. I am trying to get out 3-5 times a week. I still haven't fully sighted in my bow. I am close, but in reality, consistency is the key. I realize that things will change between now and then, and I am solely working on mechanics. I am looking for groups and a good flight more than anything. In reality things will likely change, at least a bit, when broadheads are added. This little change will amplify ANY flaw in your shooting form.

Something else to think about, as you practice the goal is to simulate the hunting experience as close as possible. Wear the clothes you plan on wearing in the field (at least when it's getting really close to your trip). This is another variable that can cause you grief. And put arrows in your quiver. This will also change things a bit. Shoot out of a tree stand or a blind if your plan is to do that. I got on a elk hunt a couple years ago and couldn't wait to use my new blind. I set it up and couldn't see my pins at all when inside. This might have been a problem if a big bull came in and I had to let him go because I had no way of aiming.

I have also seen people trying to speed shoot while practicing. They would try to get a shot off as quick as possible. I am not sure about this theory? I agree that you don't want to take a whole lot of time, but I try to practice just the opposite. When that bull walks up your adrenaline will be racing, in my opinion you want to be able to slow things down a bit and calm your nerves. I have only seen a few people who could speed shoot with any accuracy. One was an outfitter, and he has a bunch of experience and did things quickly, but it was not rushed.

We all owe it to the animal to make the most efficient and clean kill we possibly can. If you have to let an animal pass because it is a marginal shot, LET HIM GO! There will be another chance.

Good luck and good shooting.