January 07, 2013
By Bowhunting Online Staff
Like the much anticipated reveal of the new iPhone or iPad each year, bowhunters wait with sweaty palms to see the latest and greatest the industry has to offer at the Archery Trade Association (ATA) show in January. Just when you think you've seen it all, somebody drops the bombshell that revolutionizes bowhunting forever. What new toys and trends will this belated Christmas time spectacular bring for 2013?
One of the most highly anticipated categories for 2013 is new bow releases, which have exceeded expectations this year. With all the specs charted and the new models in hand, one thing is clear about this year's class — fast and smooth have gotten faster and smoother . From the biggest names to some newer faces on the market, Petersen's Bowhunting
The Sitka Deer Range To hunt Sitka deer, you have to travel to Alaska or British Colombia, destinations that can stretch the budget and the imagination. At the same time, if you crave a do-it-yourself Alaskan hunt but can't afford moose or caribou, Sitka deer may be the perfect answer for you.
A Trip Worth the Prize The average mature Sitka buck has three points on the main beams and short eye-guards. This buck, which author Dwight Schuh shot on Kodiak Island in early November, measures about 85 P&Y inches.
A Northern Adventure Hunting Sitka deer in Alaska is a great adventure. If you're hunting Kodiak Island, you fly from Anchorage to the town of Kodiak, and from there you take a bush flight to your destination.
Flying In The south end of Kodiak Island is relatively open, making it ideal for spot-and-stalk hunting throughout the long season. From the town of Kodiak, author Dwight Schuh's partner Roy Roth and he flew by bush plane to a river and hiked from their base camp to neighboring mountain ranges.
Queen Charlotte Islands These Queen Charlotte Islands are heavily timbered from beach to mountaintop, so most hunting takes place in logging blocks. There is no alpine hunting as there is on most Alaskan islands (photo courtesy of Neil Summers).
Raft Right In Most boat operators and bush pilots are transporters, not outfitters, meaning they can only place you in good areas. They cannot legally guide you, give you advice on where or how to hunt, or help you pack or butcher game. If you need more support, you can book guided hunts throughout most of the Sitka deer range.
Two for the Road Author Dwight Schuh made the trip with his partner, Roy Roth, who also had success tracking down a Sitka deer. The adventure is always more enjoyable if you have someone else to share it with.
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