Sharing the Woods
So can archers and gun hunters share the woods in a single season?  Absolutely! Consider the setup for bowhunters versus rifle hunters.  Rifle hunters will typically be on the edge of wide open places with room to roam.  Bowhunters, on the other hand, can often be found tucked into tight places, close to cover and bedding areas.  Famous outdoor writer Bill Winke says, “I can understand that some gun hunters want to keep the number of hunters down during their season, but I doubt the bowhunters impact their hunting much as the strategy is so much different.  They aren’t really competing for the same setups.”  Winke also says, “In some states the rut takes place during the firearms season and in those states bowhunting can be tough outside of the rut, so having access to that season with a bow is a definite advantage for bowhunters. “

The Way It Was
My buddy, Troy Ruiz, reminds us, “When our forefathers walked this earth with the Indians there were 2 means of taking game for consumption…bow and arrow and Flint Lock.  For me, either way, dead is dead and meat is meat.  Why can't firearm hunters and bow hunters share the same passion at the same time as long as all the safety requirements are met?  If we judge one versus the other, then we’re picking sides.”

As fellow hunters we should unite with one another rather than pick sides over the weapons we use.......shouldn't we?

Conclusion
In the woods, back at camp, or on the streets, hunters must work towards being united.  Shame on us for allowing our thoughts on a compound bow, longbow, crossbow, recurve, or rifle being superior to another.  Such views and opinions will divide us and tear down the tradition of hunting we cherish.  I want to see more hunters in the woods.  I want to see new hunters in the woods.  I want my children…and their children…to continue to have ample opportunities to hit the woods with the weapon of their choice for many seasons to come.  We must share the woods…we must share the passion. What do you think? Let us know your feelings on this topic.

Brodie Swisher is a world champion game caller, outdoor writer, and seminar speaker.  Check out his websites at www.realitybowhunting.com and www.brooutdoors.com.