Ready to enhance bowhunting skills with an antelope spot and stalk hunt? Preparation months in advance is essential for one of the most challenging, exciting, and frustrating hunts. The antelope, often referred to as a “speed goat,” is the fastest North American animal, reaching speeds of up to 70 mph on open prairie. Their exceptional eyesight, comparable to 8-power binoculars, makes stalking difficult on arid land with limited cover.

1. Stay Stealthy

When approaching, be mindful of wind direction, ensuring it is in your face. Utilize the land’s natural features, such as buttes and valleys, to conceal your approach. If antelope spot you—even from a distance—your hunt may end instantly, so be prepared to initiate stalks from up to a mile away on unsuspecting goats.

2. Optics Are Essential

High-quality optics are crucial. Use a spotting scope with 15-45x60mm power (waterproof and compact with rubber armoring) for locating goats, and lightweight binoculars with 8×42 or 10×42 magnification during the stalk.

3. Keep Gear Accessible

Ensure gear is out of the way yet quickly accessible. A harness system can keep binoculars close to the body. If a quiver is not attached to the bow, use a quiver pack on the upper body. Keep essential items like a rangefinder, water bottle, and knife on your belt, and store a license, cell phone, toilet paper, compass, flashlight, and snack bars in your pockets. Mobility and stealth are paramount.

4. Use Decoys

Portable decoys are vital for getting close in open terrain. Lightweight antelope decoys can be easily carried, quickly assembled, and held upright with one hand, leaving the other hand free for the bow during a stalk.

5. Wear Appropriate Boots and Clothing

Expect to cover miles daily. Wear comfortable, breathable, and lightweight boots suitable for rocky, dry terrain. A cap or head mask is essential for concealing the face from both antelope and the elements. In excessively hot conditions, consider a 3D suit or camo bug suit with shorts and a t-shirt underneath. Lightweight knee and elbow pads can enhance comfort while crawling.

6. Prepare Mentally and Physically

The most critical factor in preparing for an antelope spot and stalk is mental and physical readiness for the shot. Gear typically used for whitetails is suitable for the similarly sized Pronghorn, which averages 100 to 125 pounds. Follow these basic guidelines:

• Begin shooting practice months before the hunt.
• Shoot regularly.
• Master shooting at longer distances than usual.

7. Master the Long Shot

Open prairies allow for long-distance bow shots. Execute shots quickly and accurately, as even minor movements by an antelope 50 yards away can affect accuracy. Aim to master shots up to 60 yards, considering both personal abilities and the bow’s kinetic energy. If unable to achieve humane kill shots at longer ranges, practice at 50 yards or whatever distance can be confidently and accurately managed. Know personal limits and do not exceed them.

Antelope are often encountered at distances of 50 to 100 yards, making it challenging to approach undetected within 40 or 50 yards. Distance estimation skills must be precise. Utilize a rangefinder consistently, as the wide-open prairies can distort distance perception. Avoid risking a shot after hours of stalking.

8. Understand Your Game

Both bucks and does have horns (not antlers). Does and younger bucks typically have horns that do not exceed ear length (2 to 4 inches), while mature males sport horns of 12 inches or longer with curved prongs. Both sexes exhibit sporadic movement during the day, creating numerous stalking opportunities. Once bedded down for the night, they usually remain still until daybreak.

Proper gear and excellent shooting skills are crucial for a successful spot and stalk hunt. Begin preparation early, both mentally and physically, to tackle this challenging bowhunt.