Hunting with a bow and arrow is an exciting and rewarding experience. But it also requires skill, knowledge, and preparation. Before you jump into bow hunting, you need to know about it. I have written in detailed article “Learn How to Bow Hunt in 9 Simple Steps” about all the necessary and fundamental information that should be known by anyone new to bow hunting. Once you are aware of basics its time to explore the beginning bowhunter’s checklist.
As a beginner, you may not be fully aware where to start when it comes to getting ready for your first bow hunt. That’s why I’ve compiled this checklist of must-haves for the beginning bowhunter. Read on to find out more!
Essential Bow Hunting Accessories
Bow hunting is not possible without a few essential accessories. That equipment includes everything from the arrow and bow to an arm guard, quiver, broadheads and more. Each accessory serves a specific purpose, from keeping your hands protected as you draw your bow strings to ensuring your accuracy with the arrowhead as it flies towards the target.
Investing in reliable and well-made equipment is key if you plan on having a successful hunt. Fortunately, investing in quality gear doesn’t have to break the bank; nowadays you can find many of the essential basics at very reasonable prices.
Safety should always be paramount when out in the field, so make sure you have all the necessary safety gear before heading off on your first hunt. Neglecting any safety measure can cause archery injury. A good pair of shooting gloves can help protect your hands from string burn caused by the release of an arrow, while also helping you grip your bow accurately when aiming and shooting. A quality quiver will keep your arrows safe and secure as you move around in the field. Below is a complete list of must have equipment’s before you go to hunt.
Essential Bow Hunting Accessories List
- Bow
- Arrows
- Release
- Broadhead wrench
- Sight
- Backpack
- Extra Broadheads
- GPS or Compass
- Sharp Knife
- Rope
- Tree stand
- Scent Eliminating Sprays
Additional Bow Hunting Accessories List
Below items are also important to carry when you go for bow hunting and are also good to have. But in case even if you don’t have them, still you would be able hunt successfully.
- Target
- Bow Case
- Shooting Gloves
- Bow Sling
Clothing & Footwear
Clothing & footwear accessories helps in making hunting easier and more comfortable. Camouflage clothing can help keep you hidden from game animals while also providing protection against weather elements like wind or rain. If possible, choose lightweight fabrics that won’t restrict movement or become too hot in warmer temperatures. And don’t forget about practical items like binoculars and rangefinders; these tools can be invaluable when scouting for game or estimating distances between yourself and potential targets out in the field.
- Hunting Boots
- Camo Outer Layer
- Insulated socks
General Items
Below is a small list of general hunting items to have if you want to enjoy bow hunting. While the essential items are already listed above, below is just a list of general hunting items that you can take with you to make your experience more enjoyable. No matter what level of hunting enthusiast you are, general hunting items are certainly worth having as they can help improve the overall experience.
- Binoculars
- Hunting Cam
- Hunting License & Permits
- Knife Sharpener
Final Check For Your Equipment
Before you go into the field to hunt it’s better to check all the equipment and items to make sure you are not leaving something behind.
Going out on a hunt without checking the gear you’ll use is like running a marathon without any preparation – it’s never a good idea. While taking a final check at your gear, review and assess each item’s functionality is order to ensure a successful hunt.
It’s important to do a final check of all equipment and items before heading into the field. Also prefer taking anything that may come in handy in the wild (like first aid kits, flashlights etc.). Doing this final check not only ensures success for when you’re out in the field but also gives one peace of mind so they can enjoy their time hunting worry-free.
Shooting Practice
As a bow hunters, if you have a fear of missing a shot, then you are probably going to actually miss it. Your doubt can create stress for you. So get more uncomfortable in your practice, it will make you more comfortable during hunt.
You can learn some archery games to level up your skill. The key is to become comfortable with shooting at distances further than what you would normally take in a hunting situation. For example, if you’re already confident up to 20 yards when hunting, try pushing yourself to eventually shoot consistently up to 30 yards. This way, taking a 25-yard shot while hunting will feel much easier. Additionally, it pays off to simulate what true hunting conditions might be like while practicing and working on your shots — try shooting from elevated stands and in bad weather. That way, when conditions aren’t ideal while out in the field, you’ll be more confident as a result of your higher level of practice.
Site Preparation & Finding a final place to start hunt
Hunters are split on the approach they prefer when hunting. Those who hunt established same stand locations every season have ample opportunity to hone in on their skills and focus on the same area. It also makes sense to get in there well before the season to set ladders, secure steps, and clear shooting lanes without disturbing much of the area. This maximizes the chances of a mature buck returning near to those areas during shooting hours.
On the other hand, for some hunters setting up new sets during each season is their preferred method as it presents its own challenges and allows them to branch out and explore new territory with a fresh mindset. Climbing stands may be quick and convenient but selection can be limited by nearby trees or terrain which may not support a secure set-up. Whichever option works best for each individual hunter it is important that little disturbance is made if you’re looking for consistent activity during hunting hours.
Sum Up
With the above list of complete accessories, you should be well on your way to enjoying a successful first hunt with a bow and arrow! Of course you can always add a couple other pieces of equipment that can come in handy depending on what kind of game you plan on doing; but with this basic checklist taken care of, any new bowhunter should be prepared for success.
I really hope you would found this checklist helpful in getting started with your journey into bowhunting. It will be an exciting to start your first bow hunting experience. Check back soon for more tips and tricks bow hunting.
Happy hunting!
FAQ’s
What color of dress is ideal to wear for hunting deer?
When it comes to hunting deer, wearing the right color of clothing is key. It's best to choose a color that is going to blend in seamlessly with your surroundings; this way, deer will not be able to pick up on your movement or see you from far off distances. Neutral colors like earthy greens, browns, and grays are all ideal for hunting deer as they match the environment and keep you hidden. Avoid colors like white and bright colors such as yellow, blue and orange as these are too visible and could compromise your position. The more neutral tones blend into foliage better, ensuring you have a successful hunt!
What scares deer the most?
It is well known that deer are some of the most skittish animals, running away from perceived threats at the slightest sound or movement. Contrary to popular belief however, their greatest fear comes not from predators, but from humans and domesticated animals such as dogs.Deer tend to panic when experiencing loud noises or strong smells associated with humans.
What attracts deer quickly?
Although the type of food that deer are attracted to may vary from region to region, certain scents, food items, and sounds can consistently be used to draw deer in different environments. Sweetly-scented apple or mesquite tree branches, corn, and alfalfa are attractive and nutritious snacks for deer. Additionally, holiday season aromas such as evergreen trees, cinnamon sticks and hot apple cider cans also prove to be alluring odors. In terms of sound, many hunters have utilized deer calls to attract bucks and does during their hunt. The combination of these factors undoubtedly causes a multitude of deer to appear relatively quickly!
Hi, my name is Basit Ali Chaudhary. I am the guy behind Smart Bow Hunting. I started this blog as a way to share my passion for archery and bow hunting with the world. I love experimenting with new ventures and trying new things. Archery is my passion, and so is bow hunting.
I started this site as a way to share my knowledge and help people overcome the challenges of bow hunting. I want to teach them everything I know about the sport. You can read the comprehensive blog posts and articles that will provide you with everything you need to know to take your bow hunting skills to the next level.
