ARCHERY (cont.)
even more ranges at other locations throughout the state, but materials shortages have slowed construction on some of the new archery facilities.
“With the new 3D range at the Northwest Arkansas Nature Center in Springdale, we have facilities within an hour or so’s drive from just about anywhere in the state. But I’m always looking for partners to expand the program even further.”
Gray advises hunters looking to get ready for the season to make a few mental notes and preparations to get their game ready for the opening day.
“Practice like you’re going to play,” Gray said. “I know it’s hot, but take a minute or two to put on the coat or shirt you’re going to wear when the season rolls around in September. I always see guys shoot all summer in shorts and a Tshirt, then talk about struggling when their shooting form changes because of the bulk of a jacket or pair of binoculars.”
Gray also tells archers to really get in tune with their yardage estimation, or prep the area around their stands before the hunt. Archers must adjust their range to a difference of only a few yards, and the wrong estimation can mean a wounded or lost animal.
“Take a minute to know your distances before the shot opportunity comes,” Gray said. “That laser rangefinder is great to use to get some marks in the woods, but it will be too much to deal with when a deer is right in front of you. Heck, I’ve even stuck a few sticks in the ground at known yardages so I know when that deer crosses a certain point what distance they’re at. The deer won’t notice a stick in the ground.”
Gray’s last bit of advice to bowhunters is to thoroughly inspect their stands and harnesses before the season opener to make sure everything is in good working order. If the stand has been up all year, replace the straps holding it to the tree or replace the stand altogether.
“Squirrels and rats will chew up straps, and stands that have been out in the weather all year can be weakened,” Gray said.
“We’re only talking about a few extra dollars on new straps and a little extra time before the season compared to being seriously hurt, paralyzed or even killed from a treestand fall if the equipment suddenly fails. It shouldn’t take any convincing to know which is the
