Healthy, giant whitetail deer are not uncommon in Chautauqua County, nearly 9,000 deer were harvested by hunters here last year — more than 20% by archery hunters. Photo courtesy of Forrest Fisher

The New York State Southern Zone Early Big Game Archery Season will open on Wednesday, Oct. 1 – that’s just 13 days away!

It’s crunch time for 3D Archery Hunters, and early preparation is key. Bowhunting whitetail deer in the forests of New York and Pennsylvania is one of the most rewarding outdoor adventures. Success, however, comes from preparation, both in equipment and in skill. Bowhunting whitetail deer with a recurve, compound or long bow is a challenge that blends patience, skill, and preparation. This year, the addition of the crossbow to the legal list of New York State hunting implements allowed in the woods during the early archery season expands to include the crossbow. With any implement that propels an arrow (or a bolt, as arrows are termed for crossbows), success in the field doesn’t just depend on having the right equipment; it depends on knowing how to use it well. That’s why regular practice and equipment checks are so critical.

Equipment readiness is essential. The checklist includes arrow fletchings and nocks, bowstrings, arrow release, gloves, and your camo.

Damaged or misaligned fletchings can throw your shot off course, while worn nocks can cause inconsistent release. Inspecting and maintaining them ensures every arrow flies true. With your bowstring, the strings stretch and fray over time. Proper care and waxing reduce the risk of breakage, keeping your draw smooth and consistent. Among the most critical items are your arrow release and gloves. A crisp, reliable release reduces human error, while gloves protect your hands and provide a steadier hold in cold conditions. Last but not least, camouflage apparel must be both comfortable and functional, enabling you to blend into your environment while maintaining a full range of motion. If your clothing binds or makes noise, it could cost you a close encounter.

After all these essential gear items are in control, skill development is indispensable, and this takes time. Do not delay getting to the range to work in those muscles that help you draw and make an accurate shot placement. Practicing on life-size 3D targets at local conservation and sportsman clubs builds muscle memory and teaches you to adapt to realistic hunting scenarios. These sessions simulate the angles and shot placements you’ll face in the woods, helping you become confident and consistent.

A large part of skill development is judging distance. Perhaps the most critical skill in bowhunting is learning to estimate the distance to your target accurately. Unlike rifle hunting, where flat trajectories give more margin for error, arrows drop quickly over distance. Misjudging even a few yards can mean a miss or, worse, a poor hit. Practicing with targets at varied ranges sharpens your ability to gauge distance and adjust your aim instinctively.

That’s where our local conservation and sportsman clubs play a vital role in helping hunters prepare. Many offer ranges with life-size 3D targets that allow archers to practice realistic shot placements and hunting scenarios. These opportunities are invaluable for building confidence before stepping into the woods. Moreover, these clubs provide a supportive community of fellow hunters who can offer advice, share experiences, and help solve any gear issues. The practice range is the place to identify that every detail matters. Reliable, well-maintained equipment is essential for accuracy and ethical hunting, helping to make you a more effective and responsible hunter.

The Bear Lake Rod and Gun Club, located at 4391 Stockton-Cassadaga Road in Stockton, is stepping up its open invitation to members and non-members to join in their active archery practice at the club on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons beginning at 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. There is open 3D shooting with life-size targets, free for members and a one-time $20 fee for non-members. It’s not just about sharpening your archery hunting skills, it’s about being part of a community that shares your passion and can help you solve any gear issues or improve your skill level. Call Rudy Abersold for info: 716-397-9717.

With the proper preparation, bowhunters can look forward to unforgettable moments in the woods and the thrill of pursuing one of North America’s most iconic game animals. The anticipation of these moments can be as exciting as the hunt itself. If you’re ready. Get ready.

Gotta love the outdoors.

Outdoors Calendar

Sept. 17: 3D Archery, Evans Rod/Gun, 864 Cain Rd., Angola; 4 p.m.-dark, 15 target course, Kitchen open, Jerome Gorski, 716-398-3008. Ends Sep. 24.

Sept. 20: Steelhead Angler Event, Hairy Trout Fall Run Kickoff, Buffalo River Grove, 2-7 p.m., 2299 Clinton St., West Seneca; $15 entry, visit The Hairy Trout (barber shop and tackle shop), 3891 Seneca St., for tickets.

Sept. 20: 1-Day Walleye Derby, Lake Erie, $45 entry, Southtowns Walleye, Paul Sanchez, 716-228-6520

Sept. 20: NYS Hunter Education, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Falconer Rod/Gun Club, Rod and Gun Club Rd., Falconer, NY.; Visit: https://dec.ny.gov.

Sept. 20: NYS Hunter Education, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., lunch provided, Bear Lake Rod & Gun, 4391 Cassadaga-Stockton Rd., Stockton, NY; Visit: https://dec.ny.gov. Info: Rudy Abersold, 716-397-9717.

Sept. 20: Reinstein Woods 25th Annual Fall Festival, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Celebrate all things nature. Crafts for kids, live animals, hands-on activities, food, and more. No registration required; 93 Honorine Dr., Depew, (716) 683-5959.

Sept. 20: 50-Bird Youth Trap Shoot, Attica Rod & Gun Club, $10, 2125 Route 98, Varysburg, NY, Info: Andrea Barrett, 716-253-0890.

Sept. 21: NYS Bowhunter Education Course, Northern Chautauqua Con Club, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., FREE, Visit: https://dec.ny.gov – must have homework completed; contact Gary: 716-366-3397.

Sept. 21: Blood Tracking Seminar, Deer Search of WNY, at Hawkeye Bowmen, 13300 Clinton St., Alden, 2-4 p.m.. Open to all hunters. Free.