Give Archery a Try by Parker Purdy

Give Archery a Try!

By Parker Purdy

	I started turkey hunting as most do by sporting a shotgun and sitting with my back against a tree. A few years ago however, I decided that I needed something a little more challenging so I began turkey hunting with a compound bow. This was a whole new approach in hunting technique and quite a feat to accomplish. If you are looking to put food on the table you may want to stick with the shotgun and avoid a bow as the weapon of choice. But, if you enjoy a challenge and an even greater reward in the harvest, try archery!
The past two years I had to take it one step further again by making an attempt to take a bird with a traditional bow. This is a bow without sights, release aids or any other gadgets that make your shot easier. It is basically a "stick and a string" that requires lots of practice to become an accurate shot. Unlike a gun or compound bow which you aim, a traditional bow is shot "instinctively". This means you see your target with both eyes open and you intuitively know the "feel" of where your arrow will strike upon release. I have never enjoyed any other moment in my hunting experience as much as I did when I harvested my turkey this season with my traditional bow. There are only a handful of women out there who have been successful in this attempt and I am proud to be one of them now!
There are countless numbers of women who are becoming or are "Huntesses" and they perpetually desire to become more involved with their natural surroundings. As these womens' skills and abilities grow, so will their want for new quests and accomplishments in their adventures. I volunteer a lot of my time to teach other women and kids archery and am willing to give advice to those who are interested.
Happy Hunting and take a friend! Parker Purdy