Seeing is believing. Hunting success is about hitting a target, while you are excited, off a rest, with an accelerated heartbeat. If you are not excited when you are about to pull the trigger, then you are doing it wrong. 

Most hunters never see what they could shoot. If you are in a zoo or an open space, finding a target is easy. When you are afield, it is a different story. Wild critters live in the wild. You are in their living room. You need to see them before they see or smell you and they have better eyes and noses than humans.

Hunting on open plains is easier but requires longer shooting. In dark timber the ranges decrease and it’s harder to see an entire animal. Distances can also be hard to judge. This is when a range finder comes into play. If hunting a tree stand, or ground blind, measure the distances before the animals pass by. That way you already know approximate ranges. 

Look for horizontal lines. This means belly and back lines. Everything in the forest is vertical. Trees grow up and perpendicular to the ground. 

Look for just a part of the animal. Even in the open plains, you may only see the head or a small part of the critter. On one Montana moose hunt, we were on the hunt for a big bull. We saw two smaller critters but not the big one that the sign reflected. After a lot of Bino work, I finally saw the tips of the bulls’ antlers 

sticking up above the thick willows. We could see that the bull was huge but never saw the entire animal until he ran through a small opening in the cover. We were in the right spot for a quick and exact shot.

Aim for the exit! I cannot over emphasize the importance of this concept. The bullet, shaft or spear must travel through the vitals to kill the animal. Think about where your projectile will enter and leave the critter. Understanding anatomy and skeletal characteristics also helps. If you ignore this idea, you will cripple and chase wounded critters forever. 

Use the right weapon. If you are using too small of a caliber, too small of a broadhead, or restrict your potential range, you are limiting your options and risk wounding the critters. 

Please sight in and practice before the hunt! If you are going to kill the critter, do it ethically, respectfully, and accurately. 

Hitem With Your Best Shot!

Montana Grant