When it comes to bowhunting, success isn’t found on opening day—it’s built in the off-season. From muscle memory to mental control, the foundation for accurate, ethical shots starts long before that first buck steps into range.
The summer lull is the perfect window to tighten your shot groupings, work out bad habits, and dial in consistency. Whether you’re shooting a compound, traditional bow, or crossbow, here are off-season shooting drills that will sharpen your skills and have you stacking arrows this fall.
1. The “One Arrow” Drill
Why it works: Simulates real hunting pressure.
In the woods, you only get one shot. The “One Arrow” drill forces you to slow down and focus like it’s the real deal.
How to do it:
- Step outside each morning or evening and shoot just one arrow.
- Use your full pre-shot routine: range, breathe, anchor, release.
- Keep a target log to track where that one arrow lands each day.
Over time, this trains your mind to treat each shot with full focus—just like you’ll need when that buck steps out.
2. Random Distance Walk-Backs
Why it works: Builds range estimation and adaptability.
Many archers only practice at 20 or 30 yards. But in the woods, shot opportunities are rarely ideal. This drill challenges your real-world accuracy.
How to do it:
- Place multiple markers at various odd distances (13, 27, 36 yards).
- Without ranging, shoot one arrow at each from memory.
- After shooting, use your rangefinder to check accuracy.
This not only sharpens distance estimation but helps identify which ranges you’re weak on—and need to work.
3. Blind Bale Drill (Form & Feel)
Why it works: Reinforces perfect form without aiming.
Many archers over-focus on the target and forget about their form. This drill brings the feel back into the process.
How to do it:
- Stand 3–5 yards from a large bale or target with no aiming point.
- Draw, anchor, and shoot with your eyes closed or loosely focused.
- Concentrate on smooth draw, relaxed anchor, and clean release.
Five to ten minutes of this daily can dramatically tighten your groupings over time by reinforcing muscle memory.
4. Kneeling and Seated Shots
Why it works: Prepares for real hunting positions.
Shots don’t always happen from a perfect stance. Practicing from awkward positions now avoids surprises later.
How to do it:
- Practice from kneeling, seated on a stool, and twisted waist positions.
- Wear your hunting gear or backpack to simulate real shooting conditions.
- Take shots at varying angles and distances.
You’ll quickly identify which positions affect your form—and fix them before the season.
5. Cold-Bore Drills
Why it works: Mimics the pressure of a first shot.
Most archery sessions start with warm-up shots. But your first shot in the field needs to be your best.
How to do it:
- Shoot your first arrow of the day from 30–40 yards without any warm-up.
- Make it count. Judge it as if it’s your only shot.
- Track that first arrow’s accuracy over time.
This builds the ability to “turn it on” immediately—a key trait of consistently successful bowhunters.
6. Grouping Tighteners: 3-Arrow Clusters
Why it works: Improves consistency and shot routine.
Rather than flinging 20 arrows with no focus, shoot fewer—but with more intent.
How to do it:
- Pick a single spot on your target.
- Shoot three arrows in slow succession, using a complete shot process each time.
- Evaluate your group: high-left? Low-right? Sloppy release?
This trains you to diagnose shot patterns and build repeatable mechanics.
7. Elevated Shooting Practice
Why it works: Simulates treestand or saddle shots.
Trajectory changes when you’re shooting from 15 to 20 feet above the ground. You need to practice that angle.
How to do it:
- Set up a safe elevated platform, deck, or use your hunting stand.
- Take shots from seated and standing positions at realistic ranges (15–35 yards).
- Focus on bending at the waist—not dropping your bow arm—to maintain alignment.
Practicing these angles ensures your arrows hit where they’re supposed to when hunting from above.
8. Wind Training and Real-World Elements
Why it works: Teaches shot control in less-than-ideal conditions.
Most early-season hunts happen in warm weather, but a breeze or swirl can wreck your confidence if you’re not used to it.
How to do it:
- Shoot on slightly windy days or with a crosswind fan setup.
- Wear your jacket or early-season gear.
- Focus on shot process and follow-through in variable conditions.
Being comfortable when the conditions aren’t perfect gives you a huge edge when the moment of truth arrives.
9. Hold and Control Drill
Why it works: Trains endurance for long shot setups.
Sometimes, you’ll draw early and need to hold at full draw while that buck steps into your lane. You must stay steady and calm.
How to do it:
- Draw your bow and hold for 20–30 seconds before releasing.
- Slowly increase hold time to 45 seconds or a minute over weeks.
- Keep aiming and breathing—don’t rush the shot.
This develops the shoulder strength and mental control needed for real-world hunting moments.
Final Thoughts
The off-season isn’t about killing time—it’s about becoming a better archer. Every shot you take in August or September could be the one that makes your October or November a success.
By building real-world scenarios, strengthening muscle memory, and refining your shot process with focused drills, you won’t just show up ready—you’ll show up deadly accurate.
So get off the couch, grab your bow, and start putting in the quiet work. Fall success begins now.
