Procrastinator Alert: Start Your Shooting Practice Now
To all the procrastinators out there who’ve been busy planning summer vacations, graduations and other distractions – spring may have just arrived, but hunting season is around the corner! If you’ve taken a break from shooting your rifle or bow this winter, it’s time to get back out there!
The clock is ticking down to the start of the hunting seasons. Now is the time to get in some serious shooting practice. Assuming you’re already sighted in, here are a few things that you should be working on before your next big hunt:
Step Away From the Bench
With your rifle or bow sighted in, it’s time to get a little more realistic shooting practice. Be sure you practice shooting from different positions and angles. Try sitting and kneeling. If you plan to use a bipod, shooting sticks, or other aids in the field, practice with those now. Make sure you can operate them quickly and effortlessly.
Most hunting guides can tell stories of missed opportunities because the hunter was messing around with a new bipod or shooting rest that they weren’t totally familiar with. Don’t let it happen to you. No matter what type of support you choose, practice, practice, practice.
Put On Your Gear
You won't be hunting in a t-shirt. Don't just practice in one either. Put on that jacket, rain gear, and any other clothing you’ll be wearing during the hunt. Make sure that you are comfortable shooting in all your layers.
The same goes for your binocular harness, daypack, and anything else you plan to use on the hunt. Do you have a rifle sling on your backpack that you plan to use? Practice taking your rifle on and off until it's second-nature.
Elevate Your Heart Rate
Finally, get in some practice with an elevated heart rate. When it comes time to take that ultimate shot, you may have climbed a steep ridge or you may be experiencing a serious case of bull fever. Do pushups or run a quick sprint. Then pick up your weapon and steady yourself for the shot.
You’ve been planning this trip for a long time and you want to make that shot count. Whatever you do, don’t wait until the week before your trip and take a few shots from a bench rest. Get out there and get some real practice before your hunt!
To learn more about our hunts, please explore the rest of our website.
