What Should I be Doing Right Now to increase the chances of filling a tag this fall?
As I write this it is July 26th, 2024. My bow tag isn’t valid until mid-September, but there are things this time of year that I begin to focus on to increase my odds in the fast approaching archery season.
Get proficient with your bow. Be sure to use the version you plan to use in the whitetail woods, be careful with complicated gear designed more for 3-D shooters as opposed to bowhunters. Archery gear is not my area of expertise, I know how to put a simple bow setup together that can reliably hit a dinner plate at 25 yards and in.
Visit your stands. This time of year is great for visiting your stand sights and making sure your shooting lane is still clear. Also be sure to think of your entry and exit to the stand.
Get into shape. Everything in the whitetail woods is “easier” the better shape you are in. Your body stays warmer longer.
Climb trees. If you use mobile hunting tactics especially practicing with your tree climbing gear before the season often makes the season easier. A bowhunter needs to be able to use this in the dark. I do my climbing and repelling without an artificial light.
Check your cold weather gear. There is still plenty of time to replace anything that has been lost or doesn’t fit now that you started #3. Being warm on stand leads to more time spent on stand. It also should be noted deer move best during cold-fronts.
Study up on your deer biology. In some ways this was cheap teasing next week's article about the biology of whitetail deer.