A Guide to Archery in Hawaii

Axis deer and the year-round calendar. Hawaii is the only state in the country where you can bowhunt axis deer, a species imported from India in 1868 that now thrives on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui. The hunt is typically spot-and-stalk in thick cover with shots in the 30 to 40 yard range, which is a different challenge than most US bowhunting. On the competitive side, Hawaii's NFAA Southwest Section position keeps clubs connected to one of the deepest US archery regions. The other defining trait is the year-round climate, which lets most of the state shoot outdoor essentially every month. Shipping costs and isolation mean that local pro shops are more important here than in mainland states.

Outdoor target, field, and 3D run essentially year-round, with trade-wind weather the main factor rather than seasonal cold. NFAA and USA Archery state-level events distribute across the calendar. Bowhunters shift to broadhead sight-in mode ahead of axis deer hunts on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui.

NFAA activity in Hawaii runs through clubs in the NFAA Southwest Section. USA Archery activity runs through clubs and JOAD programs. The Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife regulates bowhunting seasons. Most competitive Hawaii archers and clubs are affiliated with NFAA, USA Archery, or both depending on focus.

Hawaii shoots compound and recurve target, 3D, and a smaller field scene. Olympic recurve has a base in Honolulu through JOAD programs. Bowhunting axis deer is the distinctive Hawaii discipline.

The cleanest way in is an intro lesson at a club or commercial range in Honolulu or on a neighbor island. Most clubs run beginner programs in 4 to 8 week blocks with equipment included, usually $80 to $250 for the full series. Look for a USA Archery Level 2 or NFAA-affiliated instructor. Don't buy gear in your first month. Rent, decide between recurve, compound, or traditional, then commit. A first proper setup runs $400 to $1,500 depending on discipline. Local pro shops are especially valuable in Hawaii given shipping cost considerations.

Hawaii-resident events run through NFAA-affiliated clubs and USA Archery state activity. NFAA Southwest Section events route through the region. Add club-hosted 3D shoots and bowhunter events through the year. Check the events page for what's coming up in your region.

Hawaii has a small but solid pro shop network, concentrated in Honolulu with options on the neighbor islands. Local pro shops are particularly important in Hawaii given the shipping costs and lead times for mainland orders. If you're new, walk in. Don't buy your first bow online. A good shop fitting saves you the cost of replacing a too-heavy bow six months later.