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Meet Smokey Crews, a living legend in the bowhunting world whose journey from self-taught hunter to record book champion offers profound lessons for archers of all skill levels. Known as "Mr. Roosevelt" for his exceptional success with trophy elk, Smokey's story begins with a seven-year-old boy hunting squirrels alone with a .22 rifle, never having a mentor to guide him.
Smokey takes us back to the early 1960s, when he hunted the boundaries of Olympic National Park with his first bow – a $23 Ben Pearson recurve. His vivid descriptions of elk herds that modern hunters can only dream about transport listeners to a different era of American hunting. "If I had a chance to hunt elk then like I do now, I would hold world records," he reflects, sharing encounters with bulls that would have broken world records at the time.
What truly sets Smokey apart isn't just his impressive collection of record book animals, but his philosophy on archery excellence. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes that good form and proper follow-through matter more than where the arrow lands. "The sign of a good shot is shooting with good form, regardless of where the arrow hits," he explains, a principle that has influenced countless archers, including podcast host Dave. This wisdom – focusing on process rather than outcome – offers a powerful framework for improvement that transcends archery.
Now 83, with neuropathy in his feet and two artificial hips, Smokey continues to pursue his twin passions of archery and fly fishing with remarkable dedication. His humility, combined with his encyclopedic knowledge of archery's evolution from traditional to modern techniques, makes this conversation an essential listen for anyone serious about improving their skills. Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or just beginning your archery journey, Smokey's experiences provide both practical insights and inspirational fuel for your own pursuit of excellence.
Subscribe now to hear the remaining episodes with Smokey Crews and learn more from one of bowhunting's most accomplished practitioners.

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