If you’re looking to get into archery hunting but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Archery is one of the most rewarding ways to hunt, but it also demands preparation, quality gear, and time on the practice range. But, a solid foundation is absolutely within reach with the right guidance.
Start at a True Archery Pro Shop
Your first stop should be a local archery pro shop, not a big-box retailer. While there are knowledgeable staff in those larger stores, nothing replaces the hands-on, one-on-one experience of a licensed pro shop that works directly with multiple manufacturers.
A professional tech can walk you through bow options, help you test several models, fine-tune your draw length, set up accessories, and make sure everything fits you and not just the average customer. That personal attention will save you frustration and money down the road.
Find the Bow That Fits You
The best bow is the one you shoot confidently and consistently. Fit, comfort, draw cycle, intended species, and your physical ability all matter.
We always tip our hat to our friends at Mathews, they build reliable bows suited for just about every hunter and every need. That said, we see many brands in the field each season, and hunters are successful with all of them. What matters most is confidence and familiarity with your setup.
As one wise man around here likes to say (Scott… and yes, we’ll give him the credit):
“You’re only as good as the confidence you have in the tools you’re using.”
This is exactly why many of us shoot Mathews.
Aim for Practical, Not Fancy
A good setup doesn’t need to be complicated.
Choose a multi-pin sight or a multi-pin movable sight. One-pin sights are popular for tournaments, but in a hunting scenario, having several yardages ready to go is a huge advantage.
Use a simple clip-on release, not an advanced back-tension style. Keep it consistent and straightforward.
Don’t chase high poundage. Modern bows perform extremely well at reasonable draw weights. Pulling too much weight creates problems, not success. Your state may have minimum requirements, but more is not always better, especially if you want longevity in the sport.
Practice. Then Practice Again
Once your setup is dialed in, practice is everything. It’s disappointing to invest in a tag, travel, gear, and time, only to go home empty-handed because you didn’t put in the work beforehand.
Shoot from different positions. Practice at realistic distances. Simulate the angles you’ll encounter in stands, blinds, and western terrain. Repetition is the difference between chance and confidence.
Start Simple With Your First Hunts
While you’re practicing, begin researching the species you’d like to pursue first. For new hunters, a controlled environment, like a ground blind or tree stand, can help build confidence and allow you to focus on fundamentals.
A great first western adventure is antelope archery hunting. Most antelope hunts are conducted from a blind, and in Wyoming, multiple opportunities are common even as herds fluctuate. It’s a rewarding way to learn shot execution under real pressure.
Plan for the Future, Especially in Wyoming
If Wyoming is on your list, start planning now. Our preference point system means securing future hunts requires foresight:
- Start buying antelope points today.
- While you’re at it, pick up your deer and elk points too.
- Points will help you draw licenses years down the road, and you can never have too many.
- Other states have their own planning systems, so do your homework, or lean on a trusted outfitter to help map out your options.
Key Ingredients to Archery Success
- Proper fit with every piece of gear you’re using
- Consistent practice, even when you think you’re good enough
- Build confidence around realistic ability and be honest with your limitations
- Planning for the hunts you want, not just this season but years ahead
- Do these things, and you’ll give yourself every chance to be successful in the field!
Come Live THE LIFE at Table Mountain Outfitters
To learn more about hunting in Wyoming with us at Table Mountain Outfitters, please explore the rest of our website. If you have specific questions, you can give us a call at 307-632-6352 or send us a message.