Bowhunting gaining popularity

Crossbow hunting winning converts - Roanoke Times

Crossbow hunting is gaining popularity.

“I have taken more game with the crossbow this year than I did with a compound in 28 years total,” said Riggs, who lives in Norfolk and hunts the southeastern section of the state. “In the past, my bowhunts were glorified scouting trips for gun hunting. Now I am hunting seriously with the crossbow.”

He isn’t the only one lauding crossbow hunting. While it is too early for a final count, an early look reveals that crossbow licenses are up this year from last year’s initial season, even through their price jumped $12.50 to $18.

Some hunters who watched from the sidelines or participated sparingly last year, took the plunge this time. While the movement included converts from the ranks of traditional bowhunters, that doesn’t account for all the growth. Bow license sales also have been healthy. “

I would expect crossbow deer hunting to increase a little each year for the next 2- to-5 years and then plateau at some relatively low level--at the most 5 to 10 percent of the total deer kill--maybe equal to traditional bows,” said Matt Knox, deer biologist for the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

Crossbow hunting winning converts Roanoke Times, VA - 14 hours ago ... important. He believes the skills he gained through years of bowhunting have helped him become more proficient with a crossbow. ...

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