With fall rapidly approaching, 
it’s past time to be thinking about everything you need to do to prepare for the season. Here are 3 things you should implement in your pre-season preparations.
- Inspect Your Equipment:
It may be the case that you have not touched your bow in a while and even if you have it’s a good idea to do an inspection of your gear before you head into the field this fall. Start by looking closely at the limbs of your bow. Inspecting them for fractures or any damage that sometimes occurs from long-term compression.
Inspect your strings and cables; are they frayed? How long has it been since your bow has been restrung? Always consult your bow manufacturer’s guide for recommended time frames for changing the strings and cables. Routine maintenance should be done by treating your bow strings with string wax for minor fraying. As you become more familiar with your bow you will get a better feel for how often it needs care. If you’re unsure, visit your local archery shop for hands-on assistance.
Check your arrows, flexing them gently, while holding it at opposite ends of the shaft. If you hear any cracking, it’s time to retire that arrow. I like to use my old arrows as end of row markers in my garden.
Check that all your fletchings, nocks, and inserts are firmly attached to the shaft. As well as inspecting your bow release.
- Practice Shooting:
Once you’ve determined your gear is safe to use. It’s time to shoot. Practice shooting at the ranges you are comfortable with and confident will result in an ethical harvest. Adjust your sights if needed. It is also a good idea to practice shooting at the distance determined by the range finder you use while hunting to help ensure your accuracy.
After you’ve established your sights are on and you don’t need to make any more adjustments, try to simulate the condition in which you would be shooting in the woods. Practice shooting with you in various layers of clothing and from an elevated position if you can.
- Make a Plan:
Lastly, be prepared for all aspects of your hunt. Where are you going? What are the conditions going to be like? When will you be back? Leave your hunting itinerary with someone you trust.
What is your plan once you make a harvest? Do you have what you need to field dress the animal? How are you getting to your vehicle? Where are you taking it? Is there someone you can call if you need help?
You don’t need to have every decision made ahead of time, but it is important to be prepared and consider the things that come post-harvest.
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