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Game Tracking - Part I, Week 10 |
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Over
the next several weeks, our Weekly Tip section will deal with several
aspects of the subject of tracking game after the shot. There
so many things to consider when it comes to tracking an animal that
we’ll break it down into several sections starting with the shot itself.
Much effort can be eliminated by analyzing the shot itself. It is
much easier said than done, but try to concentrate on watching your arrow
strike the animal. Note exactly where the shot hits and the animal’s
reaction. Knowing where the shot should
hit should be studied long before the hunt even begins.
The use of a lighted nock such as the Lumenok can be very helpful in determining exactly where your shot hits. The use of white or fluorescent vanes can also make the hit much easier to see. |
Notice
how the animal reacts when hit. Often times a deer will leap wildly into
the air on a heart or lung shot and will sometimes just “hump up” on a
gut shot. Watch for these signs to help you determine where your shot hit.
It will prove valuable when deciding whether to follow up the track
immediately or hold back for a while to give the animal time to expire. Watch and/or listen after the shot. Make a mental note of the last place you were able to see the animal. Study the spot very carefully as things look entirely different from the ground than from your position in a tree stand. Be sure you can identify the spot before you take your eyes off it and climb down. Listen intently. Often times you can hear an animal crash through the woods long after you’ve lost sight of it. This can greatly shorten your tracking distance. Next – STAY PUT! Unless you actually see the animal fall and can see that it is definitely dead – DO NOT take up the trail for at least 30 minutes after the shot. A wounded animal can cover lots of ground in a matter of a few seconds but often times will only run a few yards and lie down if not pressured. Many times, the animal is not aware of what just happened and will simply lie down to rest and expire right there. |
If you follow up too quickly, you could jump
the animal and push it further away and possibly lose it.
Next week we’ll discuss taking up the track and marking the trail. And this is your Bowhunting North America Tip of the Week! John Shelley Pro Staff Bowhunting North America, LLC
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