Chapter 6: Methods of Bowhunting

Still Hunting, Stalking, and Glassing

Still hunting, stalking, and glassing are various methods of moving slowly through woods and pastures or along trails, hillsides, and mountain slopes. All of these methods require patience and are usually most effective from the downwind side.

• In still hunting, you move slowly and deliberately until you spot game—before it spots you. Generally, the hunter will take a few slow, deliberate steps and then stand or squat motionless for several minutes while scanning all surrounding areas for game. Still hunting requires exact attention to details such as wind, sunlight, and weather conditions.
• In stalking, the game has been spotted and the hunter slowly and deliberately maneuvers into shooting range and position for an effective shot.
• Glassing is sitting for a long time at vantage points and spotting game from afar with binoculars or spotting scopes. After the game is spotted, you stalk it.

Advantages Usually provide the most effective methods for hunting big game animals, especially in the Western United States, Canada, and Alaska, where a good deal of walking and spotting are required. Allow bowhunters to find more active wallows, scrapes, rubs, tracks, and other signs of game. Offer an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of wild landscapes and animal habitats. Disadvantages Takes a high degree of skill and even some luck to get into bowhunting range for an effective shot without being spotted. Movements alert animals. Requires caution to avoid being mistaken for game by other hunters.

When stalking an animal for a shot, try to establish your movement direction on a diagonal line, rather than directly toward the animal. This is a less threatening movement pattern in the event the animal has spotted you.