How to Cut Shooting Lanes for Bow Hunting | Jared Mills

Published on October 30, 2024
Duration: 14:25

This guide details how to effectively trim shooting lanes for bow hunting, emphasizing the importance of considering seasonal foliage changes and deer behavior. The instructor advises erring on the side of caution by leaving more cover than necessary, especially in early season, and highlights the critical role of back cover to avoid silhouetting. Techniques for using tools like pole saws and pruners, as well as strategies for minimizing scent and noise, are also covered.

Quick Summary

When trimming shooting lanes for bow hunting, consider the season and tree types to gauge remaining cover. It's best to err on the side of leaving more cover than necessary, as deer can move through smaller openings and back cover is vital for concealment.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction and Stand Prep
  2. 00:21Factors in Trimming Stands
  3. 00:41Timing and Seasonality
  4. 01:37Tree Type and Cover Retention
  5. 02:34Trimming Process and Tools
  6. 03:00Trimming from the Tree Stand
  7. 03:48Deciding Which Branches to Cut
  8. 04:02Erring on the Side of Caution
  9. 04:59Spot-Specific Trimming Considerations
  10. 05:37Importance of Back Cover
  11. 06:23Assessing Deer Approach and Lanes
  12. 07:09Creating Main Shooting Lanes
  13. 07:43Drawing Bow and Movement
  14. 08:32Foliage Changes and Trimming
  15. 09:13Bending vs. Cutting Branches
  16. 09:59Final Lane Assessment
  17. 10:24Second Lane Trimming
  18. 10:46Noise Considerations
  19. 11:04Hunting Immediately After Trimming
  20. 11:47Ground Trimming and Lane Check
  21. 12:16Tools for Trimming
  22. 12:43Quiet Trimming with Pruners
  23. 13:07Hanging Hunts and Ground Trimming
  24. 13:20Ground Scent Control
  25. 14:03Final Thoughts and Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key factors to consider when trimming shooting lanes for bow hunting?

Key factors include the timing of the hunting season (early vs. late), the type of trees and their foliage retention, and the specific terrain and deer approach angles. Always prioritize leaving adequate cover to avoid detection.

How much cover should be left when trimming shooting lanes for bow hunting?

It's generally advised to err on the side of leaving more cover than you think is necessary. Over-trimming can expose you, while deer often move through more openings than perceived, allowing for shots through smaller gaps.

What is the importance of back cover when bow hunting from a tree stand?

Back cover is crucial because it prevents you from being silhouetted against the background when viewed from below by deer. This helps conceal your movements and reduces the chance of being detected.

What tools are recommended for trimming shooting lanes for bow hunting?

Recommended tools include an extendable pole saw for high branches, a pruning saw for general cutting, and pruners for quieter trimming of smaller limbs. Packable versions of these tools are ideal for carrying into the field.

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