10 Archery Deer Hunting Tips

Archery deer hunting requires a lot of patience, knowledge and skill, so here are 10 archery deer hunting tips to consider when you go out into the woods next time. Archery hunting requires more skill than gun hunting because your weapon is not as lethal, and because with archery you only get one shot.

1. Safety first. Always wear hunters orange and keep account of where other people in your party are.
2. Your target. Be absolutely sure what you are about to shoot at is a deer, and not another hunter or other person lost in the woods.
3. Scouting. Winter time is a good time to scout for the following year's hunt. Find paths that deer take, find places they like to eat and drink, and plan your hunt accordingly.
4. Sharp arrows. Make sure the blades are razor sharp. They do not come sharpened, so for best results you need to make them as sharp as possible.
5. Layers. You may have to be still a very long time in the cold, so dress accordingly. Wear several layers of clothes and thermal underwear.
6. Stalking. If you plan to hunt in this manner, you will need to practice your movements. Deer have great senses of smell and hearing, so it is difficult to stalk a deer, but it can be done if you are skilled enough.
7. Call of the wild. Learn how to use deer calls, and use them especially in the rutting season.
8. Smell of success. Deer can smell you far away. Get some deer scent at your local outdoor store and use it while hunting.
9. Preparation. Set up targets and practice year round. You need to develop your skills because you will likely get only one shot.
10. Midday. Most hunters are out in the very early morning hours or late evening. On public lands, consider the middle of the day when most hunters are not in the woods.