I shot like total shit tonight. Very frustrating.
Hehe. Yep, know that feeling.
X2
I'm a mediocre shot at the top of my game. I have no natural ability to shoot a bow and arrow like some people do. I know that I have to shoot regularly to stay sharp and in shape. Shooting slumps are a natural part of a regular shooting regimen. I don't let it get me down when I'm shooting poorly, but try to figure out why. if I can't , then I'll just take a couple of days off. usually, it's something stupid and simple that I'm doing or not doing during my shot sequence. fatigue, both physical and mental, makes me shoot bad, too. I'm much more consistent and accurate when my muscles are well rested from the rigors of my work or just shooting too much. My head needs to be in the right place, too. I've had plenty of occasion to talk and shoot with guys that are among the best of the best traditional shooters. Guys like Ken Redding and Steve Snider here locally. They have shooting slumps, too.
the best piece of advice anyone has ever given me about shooting a bow and arrow is my friend Larry Yien. Larry is an accomplished bowhunter and two time IFAA World Champion in the Mens Longbow division. I flat out asked him when we were hunting together several years ago how he keeps his focus when shooting in competition or when he's struggling. he said, "you have to enjoy the shot". this has always resonated with me
"Enjoy the shot." I keep this in the front of my mind when I'm struggling, and it is quite soothing. I also move up close and take "feel good" shots until I'm feeling good again.
