Most bow experts agree that the most common mistake bowhunters make in setting up their bows is selecting a draw length that is too long.

The benefit of a long draw length is that you get more energy and speed from your bow. The drawback is that it is more difficult to maintain good form when stretching to achieve a longer draw. You'll also notice "draw creep" (a tendency for your anchor point to drift forward) when shooting at the top end of your natural draw length, especially on longer holds.

When selecting your draw length, take anywhere from a half-inch to a full inch off the measured recommended length. This is especially important if you plan to use a release aid, and it is vital if you add a string loop. There's nothing wrong with shooting with your elbow slightly bent, and you'll be less likely to hit your sleeve or arm. More importantly, you'll have an easier time bringing your bow back to true full draw for every shot.

Here's a tip if you're looking for a hot public hunting spot near where you live.

It'll take a little digging, a few phone calls, and perhaps some internet investigating, but you can find the next hot spot open for public deer, likely before the word gets out to everyone and the cream of the herd has been skimmed away.

Call your local wildlife or game office, or check on line, and learn what are the newest public hunting areas slated to open this fall.  Be sure to ask if there are any new, large spots, that had recently been in private hands, or managed by hunt clubs, but now are going public.

Do the same thing with federal land, checking with the Forest Service, military installations, perhaps special new arrangements between timber companies or other large private landowners that are entering into a new public hunting arrangement with the state.

Be polite, but don't be bullied into not getting current and good information from state or federal wildlife folks.  Some people do not want all the general public to know a hot new deer area is available, fearing there will be a rush by hunters to the spot, and perhaps putting undue pressure on the site and its animals.  But that is not the business of game managers.  They work for you, and you have the right to know about the best hunting sites your tax dollars are paying for.

Once you locate a spot or two, learn what counties or regions they're in, and get a handle on the game population from wildlife biologists who cover that area.  Then get maps of the spot, and scout it at your earliest opportunity.  Next get all the current info on how and when you can hunt it, regarding regulations, permits, etc.

Don't wait for fall.  Do it now.  Be nice, ask questions.  But get solid answers to everything you have a right to know.

In the Photo: Locating public hot spots isn't easy, and takes some hard digging.  But they're available and great animals are taken annually from them.