FAQ
Bowhunting is a complementary hunting tool in modern game management?
Hunting with a bow and arrow is certainly a legitimate method in contemporary wildlife management. Statistically, a bowhunter requires significantly more time in the field—five to ten times longer—to get within a range where they can successfully harvest game, typically around 20 meters. This short distance makes it exceptionally safe for use near properties and in (peri-)urban areas.
How does bowhunting promote good hunting ethics?
Good hunting ethics indeed strongly endorse the practice of bowhunting. Hunters who opt for the bow and arrow find themselves in close proximity to the animals, thereby demonstrating profound respect for the game by "hunting on nature's terms," without relying on many of the advantages that modern technology offers us. The necessity of approaching the game closely—usually within 30 meters—ensures that animals have sufficient opportunity to sense the presence of the hunter and escape.
Poaching have falsely been associated with bow and arrow, what are the facs?
The argument that hunting with bows and arrows would increase poaching is fundamentally incorrect. The European Bowhunting Federation has consulted with professionals in countries where bowhunting is legal and found that the use of bows and arrows for poaching is exceedingly rare. In Mississippi, USA, where statistics are available, only 1% of reported poaching incidents involved bows and arrows. Authorities in Denmark, France, Finland, and Hungary report virtually no issues with bowhunting-related poaching.
There are several reasons for this. Firstly, it is challenging or impossible to shoot from a vehicle with a bow and arrow. The extended time required for bowhunting increases the risk of exposure for poachers. Additionally, shooting at night with a bow is difficult. Furthermore, archery equipment is an unlikely choice for criminals targeting game, as they have easier access to modern semi-automatic firearms, which can be equipped with sound suppressors and night-vision aids.
Isn’t it just as challenging to silently approach game with a shotgun, which also requires close proximity to the hunted animal?
Successfully approaching game within shotgun range is undeniably challenging. However, this approach fundamentally differs from bowhunting, missing key elements that many enthusiasts value in the bowhunting experience.
What are the recommended requirements for becoming a bowhunter?
The official policy of the European Bowhunting Federation (EBF) mandates that all hunters should undergo comprehensive education, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, as the foundation of their training. Furthermore, individuals wishing to hunt with a bow and arrow are required to complete a specialized course, such as the International Bowhunter Education Program (IBEP) or an equivalent program, to ensure proficiency and safety in bowhunting practices.
What does the EU say?
The "European Charter on Hunting and Biodiversity" recognizes bow and arrow hunting as a recommended method for promoting biodiversity conservation and rural development. Furthermore, there are no restrictions on the use of bows and arrows within any European Directives that regulate hunting activities.
What is the accuracy potential of modern bows?
A skilled archer can achieve high accuracy up to approximately 90 meters. However, when hunting, the typical engagement distance decreases to about 20-30 meters, at which the precision of an archer is comparable to that of a firearm hunter. Statistics reveal that the average shot taken by a bowhunter at game is at less than 25 meters, with bowhunters rarely attempting shots at moving targets. Danish data specifically illustrates that 85% of harvested roe deer were stationary at the time the arrow was released. Furthermore, the same study indicates that nearly 80% of the roe deer were shot from a distance of less than 20 meters.
What type of game can be harvested with bow and arrow?
A contemporary hunting bow, equipped with arrows that have hunting tips, is highly effective, making it possible to ethically harvest all game species in Europe. In countries with a rich tradition of bowhunting, like the USA, deer are the most commonly hunted species with bows, with over 1.1 million deer, primarily white-tailed, being harvested in 2011 alone. Additionally, each year, hunters also successfully harvest thousands of bears, wild boars, and moose with bows.
Why do people choose to hunt with bow and arrow?
While the motivations for hunting vary from one individual to another, a common theme among most hunters is a profound passion for immersing themselves in nature, often feeling a deep connection as both observers and participants in the natural cycle, with the additional benefit of harvesting high-quality, nutritious venison.
This diversity in hunting preferences can be likened to the variety found among sport fishermen: some prefer net fishing, others enjoy casting or spinning rods, while a distinct group opts for fly fishing. Fly fishers, in particular, tend to be deeply dedicated, focusing more on the art and process of fishing than the catch itself. A similar mindset exists among bowhunters, who often value the experience and challenge of the hunt as much, if not more, than the outcome.
Why not use the most time effective hunting tools?
How do you conduct a post-shot follow-up a situation were an animal may have been hit– are firearms used, considering the possibility of a moving target?
Tracking game following a shot is universally acknowledged as one of the most challenging aspects of hunting, often considered by many experts as the toughest part of the pursuit. Whenever the situation permits, it is advisable to employ the most effective methods for game recovery. In such instances, the use of firearms may be recommended to ensure the efficient retrieval of game.
How do you explain occasional images in the news showing arrows sticking out of wounded game?
These instances typically involve young archers using lightweight target equipment, along with arrows tipped with basic target points. In contrast, a hunting arrow is equipped with a specially crafted head featuring several razor-sharp blades, designed to ensure it usually passes entirely through the game animal, maximizing efficiency and effectiveness in the hunt.