The opening week of hunting season in North Carolina is always something special, but this year was unlike any other for me. Not only was it my first time harvesting a buck with a bow and arrow, but I also managed to pull it off on opening morning—a pair of huge milestones that I’m still riding high from.
It was a beautiful September afternoon, the perfect backdrop for the beginning of the season. I had been scouting for weeks, monitoring patterns, setting up trail cameras, and mentally preparing for this exact moment. It was my second sit of the day and the woods came alive. I settled into my stand, bow in hand, and patiently waited. Then, there he was—a mature buck, cautiously moving through the brush. With a steady heart and clear focus, I drew my bow and made the shot count. The feeling of pride, accomplishment, and respect for the animal washed over me. Harvesting my first buck with a bow, and on opening day of the season, made it a day I’ll never forget.
Now that I’ve got this moment in the books, I want to share some key tips for early-season bowhunting that helped me get the job done.
5 Best Early Season Bowhunting Tips
- Scout Early and Often
- Preseason scouting is crucial, especially for early season hunts. Study deer movement patterns, feeding areas, and bedding locations. Using trail cameras will give you real-time data on when and where the deer are most active. The more intel you have, the better you can position yourself for a successful hunt.
- Play the Wind
- Early season hunts mean the weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures often rise quickly. Deer are highly sensitive to scent, so make sure you’re hunting with the wind in your favor. Always check wind direction before heading into your spot, and use scent-control sprays and gear to reduce your scent profile.
- Be Stealthy
- Early season deer are not under as much pressure, but they’re still on high alert. Move quietly, avoid making unnecessary noise, and wear lightweight, scent-free clothing to blend into the environment. Slow, deliberate movements and patience can make all the difference in those critical moments.
- Focus on Food Sources
- Early season is all about food. Deer are usually keyed in on specific feeding patterns, whether it’s acorns, crop fields, or food plots. Set up near these areas, as deer will typically visit food sources early in the morning and late in the evening, giving you prime opportunities for a shot.
- Take the Shot with Confidence
- Bowhunting requires precision and confidence in your equipment. Practice regularly and know your effective shooting range. When the moment comes, trust your instincts, breathe steadily, and aim for a clean, ethical shot. Confidence is key when drawing back your bow.
Reflecting on this hunt, I’m reminded of the dedication, preparation, and respect that goes into bowhunting. The connection you feel when taking a buck with a bow is different from any other hunt—it’s an intense, rewarding experience. Opening day in North Carolina has officially set the tone for the rest of my season, and I can’t wait to see what else it brings.
Good luck to everyone out there hitting the woods! Make sure to stay prepared, patient, and focused—those early season rewards are out there waiting.
Happy hunting!
Jordan
