Traditional archery hunting: stories and advice about traditional bowhunting

by Clay Hayes, Elizabeth Hayes (Editor)

In this entertaining collection of stories, Clay Hayes takes readers on traditional archery hunting adventures across the country. From the mysteries of the southern swamps, to the rugged mountains of central Idaho, Clay brings woodsmanship, and a fascination with nature, to the forefront. His enthusiasm and dedication to the hunt is evident as he reminds us that it’s more about the journey than the destination; more about the effort than the inches. The stories in this book lean heavy on the most traditional and aesthetic of weapons – the longbow. Not because he thinks it makes him a better hunter, but because it’s what he knows. Traditional archery is at the very core of why Clay hunts. It allows him to fill the hunter’s niche that was carved out ten thousand years ago. It forces him to overcome an animal’s senses, to exist within that hypersensitive bubble where game has evolved to detect and evade predators much more skilled than himself. In other words, it means a lot of tag soup, but an unparalleled sense of accomplishment when it all comes together. Scroll up to get your copy now. You do not need a Kindle to enjoy the Kindle version. There are free apps available for smart phones, tablets, PC’s and Macs.

99 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 6, 2014

Reviews

[Angel A. Medina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable Book

Enjoyed sitting back and reading Clay's stories and outdoor experiences. Well written, nice read for those that love tales of traditional bowhunting and the outdoors.

[Jenora Merlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alot of fun

Good stories, great info, must read for the traditional soul. It you like to read thoughtful articles about hunting and woodsmanship then this book is for you!

[Scott Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supper book


A great book for archers an people who love the outdoors.
A book that I will revisit over again an pass on

[Dwayne Mchottie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, a few small typos but great storytelling.

[Jun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very wholesome read, just wish it was longer. Contained a few nice stories and a couple of instruction chapters.

[Dianna Grueser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

I love Clay’s clear love for nature, hunting, and woodsmanship. He is an inspiration to those of us that share in these passions.

[Trevor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clay Hayes is no stranger to most traditional bowhunters. He's well-known for his website, Twisted Stave Media, and has taught many a bowyer a lesson or two on his YouTube channel. If you've an interest in hunting with a traditional or primitive bow, I highly recommend reading his book, Traditional Bowhunting, available as e-book or paperback on Amazon and as a signed paperback at Twisted Stave.

The book begins following two archers on a sojourn through a swamp in pursuit of bullfrogs. Skillful prose brings the swamp to life, and it's a noisy, creepy, smelly, dirty… and downright magical place. Clay makes something clear in this story: you don't have to chase something with antlers to have an incredible time hunting with buddies - it's the pursuit that makes hunts memorable. This is a recurring theme throughout the book. Whether the prey is rabbit, elk, or bear, Clay's love for hunting emanates from the page and inspires the reader to go make their own memories afield.

There are also a few chapters of plainly-written information the reader will find highly useful. Do you have trouble finding hogs? Clay is not only an experienced hunter but also a professional wildlife biologist, so his chapter on hog behavior alone justifies the price of the book. You'll also learn tips about tree stands, survival techniques, butchering meat, and tanning hides. These informational chapters are short, sweet, and quick to reread on the eve before you try what you learn.

While a short read at just under 100 pages, this book is as educational as it is enjoyable, and has the potential to inspire anyone to make a stickbow of their own and take it for a walk in the woods. If you're still not interested in this book, then go watch Clay's films Ascent and Untamed and judge his work for yourself.