Paleolithic man used bows and arrows. Egyptian archery predated the pharaohs. Before firearms came along, the bow and arrow was among the most important weapons and hunting tools on Earth. Today, it is used for hunting, fishing and target sport. There are dozens of archery clubs in Michigan, including some that date back decades. The styles and purposes of archery among their memberships usually varies. Clubs hold tournaments, host events, increase the knowledge of the sport and provide practice ranges.
Terminology
The world of archery is so wide that is pays to know some of the jargon if you are a beginner and considering joining a club. The term "3-D range" means you are shooting on a range where the targets are three-dimensional, life-sized replicas of humans or animals. "Broadhead ranges" are those on which you may use arrowheads with triangular shaped cutting blades as are used for hunting animals. "Traditional" and "compound" shooters refer to the types of bows used. "Field archery" is done on a simulated practice field.
Tomahawk Archers
Field archery on a beautiful course running through a hardwood forest can make you feel primeval. You can have that experience at the Tomahawk Archers club in Temperance, Michigan. Its field course promises to challenge archers from beginner to expert. Shooting is from the ground and from platforms. The targets are hand-painted and a source of pride for the club. You can stay busy with this club at events all year on both outdoor and indoor ranges.
Deertrack Bowhunters
Marquette, Michigan, is home to the Deertrack Bowhunters. The club is a nonprofit volunteer community service organization. Here, you can hone your archery skills on outdoor ranges that are professionally designed with a variety of targets; field challenges, 3-D ranges and broadhead pits. The range has woods, water and varying terrain and is open year-round. The Deertrack Bowhunters belong to the Upper Peninsula Field Archery Association and the National Field Archery Association.
Mid-Michee Bowmen
Bring your family and bows to the Mid-Michee Bowmen in Midland, Michigan. Not-for-profit and geared toward families, the club has a youth league, and the memberships include parents and family members under age 18. Mid-Michee offers 3-D outdoor target leagues and broadhead leagues. There are 3-D weekend shoots all year and an indoor range for winter. Traditional and compound shooters are welcome.
Detroit Archers Club
If you want a large club with lots of choices, try the Detroit Archers Club. It has 31 acres, including three outdoor ranges. It is in West Bloomfield, Michigan. The broadhead course has 28 targets at various shooting positions and distances. The field course has 14 stations with ranges up to 80 yards. There is a bale target range and a 30-target 3-D range. The indoor range is 30 yards. Events are held throughout the year.
Flint Bowmen
If you are near Grand Blanc, Michigan, stop into the Flint Bowmen club. It is another family-friendly club. The club, founded in 1937, is one of the oldest and largest in the state. Flint Bowmen has both indoor and outdoor ranges. Leagues are open to nonmembers as well as members. The focus of the club is two-fold: target archery and bowhunting styles. The indoor range is for field tip only. Target, 3-D and broadhead styles are accommodated on the outdoor ranges.
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