When the stay-at-home order first hit, many hunters assumed the worst—that spring turkey season was done before it even started. I was one of them. After reading the headline, I muttered, “Well, there goes my turkey season.” For nearly an hour, I sat in a gloomy fog, imagining a spring with no archery, no woods, no adventure.
But then I dug deeper and actually read the order. Line by line. Word by word. And what I found surprised me: outdoor activities were still allowed as long as social distancing was maintained. Walking, running, hiking, biking—and yes, even hunting and fishing—were fair game. A quick check with the state wildlife agency confirmed it: turkey season was still on, and public waters remained open.
That realization changed everything. And it’s a great reminder—social distancing doesn’t have to mean indoor distancing. In fact, the outdoors is one of the best places to stay active, stay healthy, and stay sane. If you're heading outside this season, make sure your gear is tuned and ready with accessories from Pine Ridge Archery.
Turkey Hunting: Make a Full Day of It
Many states kept their turkey seasons open, making spring the perfect time to chase longbeards. One of the best strategies is to commit to the entire day:
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Hunt the roost at sunrise
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Take a midday break to glass and listen
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Revisit food sources or roosting areas in the afternoon
Gobblers often get lonely when hens slip away to nest, making late morning and lunchtime birds surprisingly vocal. Pack your gear, lunch, and a few snacks—and don’t forget NITRO accessories from Pine Ridge Archery to keep your bow setup tight.
Bowfishing: A Fun Way to Stay Active
If you’ve never tried bowfishing, now is a great time. It’s inexpensive, exciting, and easy to learn. A simple bowfishing kit can transform your recurve or low-poundage compound into a capable carp-slayer. And the action is fast—perfect for beating cabin fever.
To make shooting more comfortable and fast-paced, add Pine Ridge Archery Finger Savers or other helpful accessories from Pine Ridge Archery.
Scout Like a Pro
After turkey season, many hunters switch focus to deer. Summer is prime time for scouting:
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Look for trails, bedding areas, and last season’s rubs
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Take note of feeding patterns
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Use digital tools like maps and apps
Consistent scouting builds confidence for fall. While you’re preparing, make sure your bow is tuned and fitted with trusted stabilizers, peeps, and vanes from Pine Ridge Archery.
Fishing: Stock the Freezer
Spring and summer bring outstanding fishing opportunities across the country. Whether you’re chasing bluegill, stripers, trout, or walleye, it’s a great way to fill the cooler—and your freezer.
Fresh fish tacos beat staying indoors any day.
Mix It Up: The Ultimate Outdoors Day
One of the best ways to enjoy outdoor distancing is to combine multiple activities:
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Try for turkeys at sunrise
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Go fishing midday
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Scout deer sign in the afternoon
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Slip back in for one more turkey hunt before sundown
A sun-up to sun-down adventure does wonders for your mental health—and keeps your archery muscles sharp. Keep your bow ready using accessories like the Kwik Stand from Pine Ridge Archery.
Final Thoughts
Social distancing doesn’t mean staying inside. With open seasons, public waters, and endless scouting opportunities, the outdoors remains one of the safest and healthiest places to be. Pack your gear, pack a lunch, and pack your bow—you’ll return home refreshed, energized, and maybe even with some wild turkey or fresh fish for dinner.
For reliable gear that keeps you ready for every adventure, visit Pine Ridge Archery today.
