How to Shoot a Bow From a Tree

Bow hunters use trees to gain an elevated and concealed position. Tree stands attach to the tree with straps or legs and the hunter sits in a comfortable position until an animal comes within view. Tree-stand hunting is effective because the hunter is able to control his position and place the stand above heavily used game trails. Shooting a bow from a tree is similar to shooting from the ground with slight adjustments for obstacles, angles and safety.

Things You'll Need

  • Tree stand
  • Safety harness
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Instructions

    • 1

      Strap a safety harness around the tree and your waist to prevent falling off the stand. The harness allows you to lean without worrying about falling.

    • 2

      Stand in a comfortable position with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold the bow and wait for the animal to walk into a clear shooting lane. Do not attempt a shot through branches and foliage. The clear lane is an absolute necessity.

    • 3

      Draw the bow with your dominant arm and hold the string on your anchor point. The anchor point is a consistent draw position and typically located around the jaw and cheekbone. Look over your shoulder and down the sights at the target.

    • 4

      Lower the aim on the target based on the relative decline. Stands at 10 ft. require a smaller adjustment than stands at 15 ft. You should adjust based on your judgment and shooting capabilities, but it is typically less than 2 inches.

    • 5

      Release the arrow to take the shot. Follow through on the shot by dropping the bow in a forward motion. Do not follow through with your body or you may fall off the stand.