A successful archery hunt begins with safety

SALT LAKE CITY — The first hunts of the 2024 season are just days away. The general season buck deer archery and the general spike any bull elk hunts kick off Aug. 17th. So KSL Outdoors Radio figured it was the perfect time to talk safety.

We enlisted the help of Gary Cook, hunter education and shooting sports coordinator for the Utah Division of Wildlife.

Importance of pre-season equipment tuneup

Cook says getting equipment sighted in and ready to go for the archery hunt could be even more important than the same preparations taken during rifle season.

“[Take] the time, going to the range … make sure you have that muscle memory dialed in and ready to go,” he said. “There is a lot of preparation needed for the archery hunt.”

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If you are in the market for a new bow, Cook said having one that fits your body and strength is important.

“Stopping by a bow shop to make sure it’s set up for your draw length and at the right poundage for [your strength level,] that’s how you’re going to be accurate. That’s how you’re going to be successful.”

Tree stand safety

Utah does not have the same number of tree stand hunters as states back East or down South. But statistically, falling from elevated positions is often the number one hunter-related injury.

If hunters are going to hunt from a tree stand this season Cook again recommends equipment that has been adjusted specifically for you.

“Make sure it’s rated for your weight including your equipment, and that it’s in good repair,” he said. “Falling while trying to get up in the stand is usually where trouble starts.

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“Having a good safety harness or fall arrest device attached to that tree before you start climbing, and [keeping it] attached until you get back down to the ground can be a lifesaver.”

Finally, although most of the time we are talking about portable tree stands it’s important to remember that it is illegal to put a permanent stand on any forest service or  BLM property.

‘Be sure you are aware of all of the regulations on the different property or land you are going to be hunting,” he said.

Broadhead safety

A successful hunt depends on good, sharp broadheads. But accidentally cutting yourself ranks pretty closely to falling from the tree stand on the list of hunter injuries.

“Keeping those arrows in a covered quiver can prevent most broadhead injuries,” Cook said. “In many cases as hunters, we get over anxious and will walk with an arrow “nocked” in the bow. This can be especially dangerous when hunting with a partner, so remember to leave it in the covered quiver. 

“It only takes a couple of seconds to nock that arrow when a shot opportunity presents itself.”

A move to a fair chase, and other reasons to switch to archery

We’ve seen a movement away from rifle hunting by some long-time hunters looking for their next challenge. And archery also provides earlier access to favored hunting locations.  And some hunters are looking for a more “fair chase” aspect to their hunting experience.  For all of these new archery hunters, Cook reiterates the importance of getting the right gear.

“It’s very customized equipment to the hunter. It takes a little more practice and a little more preparation to be able to be proficient and successful”.

Tim Hughes is the co-host of Utah’s Morning News and the host of the KSL Outdoors Show on KSL NewsRadio. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram. 

 

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