You should only carry arrows in the nocked position when you are very close to taking a shot, such as when you are slowly and carefully approaching clearly visible game and have a safe target and background.

Core safety rule

  • Carry an arrow nocked only when you are:
    • Slowly approaching game.
* Actively preparing to shoot with a clear, identified target and a safe area beyond it.
  • At all other times, keep arrows unnocked to reduce the risk of an accidental release or injury.

Situations to avoid

  • Do not carry an arrow nocked:
    • While walking behind or near another hunter.
* When starting or ending a hunt, or hiking in/out of an area.

* When you have not yet decided on a safe shot or are still scanning for game.

Why timing matters

  • A nocked arrow is essentially a drawn firearm with the safety off: it is ready to fire, so any trip, slip, or bump can cause an unintended shot.
  • Limiting nocked carry to the final approach on game balances quick shooting opportunity with ethical and safe hunting practices.

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Learn when you should carry arrows in the nocked position, the key bowhunting safety rules behind it, and situations where a nocked arrow is unsafe.

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