We're actually not allowed to bowhunt during firearms season in IL. I still wouldn't go out there if we could. I hunt on the ground and last time I checked, I still didn't want to get hit with the stray punkin ball.

QuoteOriginally posted by Tom Leemans:
We're actually not allowed to bowhunt during firearms season in IL. I still wouldn't go out there if we could. I hunt on the ground and last time I checked, I still didn't want to get hit with the stray punkin ball.

That is unfortunate.  Both that you can't hunt and that you would feel unsafe doing so.  Statistically speaking ALL forms of hunting are safer than driving to the corner for a gallon of milk.

To quote a wise bowhunter "I rank it right up there with neckties and root canals!"

We have to wear it in Arkansas and Louisiana. I personally hate the stuff but wear it to be safe. Deer may not be able to see color but on our properties I know from experience they can pick out anything orange easily. I guess they have gotten used to associating that shade of color with hunters.

Get yourself to feel confident wearing it..... that's what matters. The color makes absolutely no difference to a deer. You could dress like a clown, and as long as you limit your movement, and play the win, you will be successful :-)

I've done it before during firearms season. It's tough to do on public land in Michigan with all the gun hunters. I love the looks on other hunters faces when they see us toting traditional bows!!

Ignore the orange, the deer don't care.            

One thing I do suggest is washing your orange in a detergent that removes UV brighteners, such as the brand made by Atsko.  The hunter orange garments in stores are loaded with UV brightners and to a deer it looks like a bright glowing blue blob.

   

My daughter and I went out this past Sunday and had a turkey walk past us. I think that is the ultimate test!!