Bowhunting: Three Things To Remember
After The Shot
Hunters refer to blood trailing after the shot as the “second hunt” because it takes time and attention to detail.
Taking a shot while bowhunting is a mix of composure, focus and adrenaline. After the shot, it’s critical to stay focused and patient. Adrenaline will inevitably surge, but decisions made in these moments determine how quickly and effectively you recover the animal.
Depending on the shot placement, an arrow-hit deer or other game may bed down quickly, or they may travel a long distance. Giving the animal enough time to stop and expire is critical to recovery. If the weather is cool, you have the time. A good rule of thumb is to wait three hours before tracking. If you think the shot hit the stomach, wait up to 24 hours before beginning the search.
Directly after the shot and while you wait, remember to identify three key pieces of information:
- Where Did The Arrow Hit?
If you use lighted nocks or bright vanes, you may have seen the arrow’s impact point. Make a mental note of where it entered the body. Also reflect on the shot itself:
- Did your aim point feel solid?
- Was your form steady?
- Did the release break smoothly with good follow-through?
If everything was correct and the distance was within your comfort zone, you likely made the best shot possible. If you think something may have been off, this is important information, too.
- Where Was The Animal Standing?
The exact spot where the animal stood holds valuable clues. Even before releasing an arrow, take note of nearby landmarks, such as a birch tree, a log or a rock. After the shot, mark that location.
From the ground, the view will look different than from your stand. Walk to those reference points. If needed, climb back into the stand to double-check your mark on the ground, or call a friend and direct them to the hit site from your stand. Once there, search for evidence:
- The arrow (if it passed through)
- Hair
- Blood
- Tracks
Clues like hair or blood color can indicate the hit location. However, remember that not every shot leaves visible blood or hair at the hit site. If that’s the case, focus on tracks and the direction of travel to try and pick up clues.
- Where Did You Last See The Animal?
Just as you marked the shot location, make a mental note of the animal’s path after the hit. Which trees, fence posts or bushes did it pass before disappearing? Describing the animal’s path to yourself will help fix the scene in your memory.
Final Thoughts
Hunters refer to blood trailing after the shot as the “second hunt” because it takes time and attention to detail. If you’re having trouble finding signs of the animal, don’t be afraid to call a friend to help. You may want to read about tracking dogs or drone operators in advance, just in case you need help. Whether you recover your animal yourself or as a team, these three reference points form the foundation of a successful recovery. |
