Because of the many variables that archers endure, continuous hunting success with a bow relies on repetition.    In the field, the perfect shot does not always present itself so archers should prepare by practicing at all ranges as well as taking shots from many positions. By going through different scenarios an archer should be able to make a confident decision to shoot or wait based on conditions and capabilities.            

To start off, an archer should begin target practice at 15 to 20 yards in a standing position. This range and position is where to develop muscle memory. What this means is that eventually, every time the bow is drawn, the hand an archer uses to pull the string will find the same anchor point on the side of their face.  This anchor point is what will keep the same line of sight from the eye through the peep sight to the pin and on the target. What the anchor point is will vary for different shooters due to personal preference and the type of release being used.  Personally I locate a spot on my earlobe every time I draw.  Go through the same routine for every shot. First draw your bow smoothly like you would in the field, do not just jerk it back.  Find your anchor point and pause for a period of time. Lock in on your target and when everything is right, release smoothly.  The pause will be used in the field to analyze different aspects of the target and decide what the proper shot placement should be.  Follow this same ritual every time. The more routine your shot is the less nervy you will be when actually in the field.  It is also important to take time in between shots.  Repetition is important but can be a waste of time unless every shot is quality. Bad habits have a tendency to develop when the body is fatigued which is why it is important to be fresh for every shot. It should not take long before this range is less and less challenging and the shot group gets tighter and tighter. 

Once the close range is conquered it becomes time to push the limits of yourself and your bow.  Back the target up five yards at a time.  Mistakes or flaws in a shot may not be noticed at a close range but will be magnified by a long distance shot. A flaw that will throw a shot off an inch at 20 yards will be significantly noticed when the target is at 30 and 40.  Practicing at ranges that make you really focus, even those beyond what you expect to be shooting in the field, will build confidence for the closer shots.  It is important to always vary the range you practice at proceeding with the same routine on every shot.  This process will help you decide what ranges you are capable of and now you can begin to practice exactly like you are going to play. 

Every hunter has their own set up of tree stands, tripods, ground blinds, etc.  Set your target up at different angles and ranges from similar set up to which you are going to be hunting.  This is where your anchor point comes into play as well as keeping the same body posture.  Certain set ups do not have a lot amount of room to be at full draw or have ideal lanes to shoot through.  It is easy to compensate for these variables by altering anchor point or body posture to get the target in your sights. Even though it might not seem like much, this can slightly change the angle at which you look through the peep sight and can result in a miss or worse, a wounded animal.  This will take trial and error to be understood fully, but by mixing up target location you can figure out which shots can be made at a consistent basis as well as what shots require a change in posture or a lost anchor point that throws you off target.