I know this is a TN sight (the state where my alligence still lies), but the majority of these observations are based on my past 3 years hunting primarily KY.

I honestly wonder is it not easier hunting with a bow? Over the past 3 years I have killed 80% of my deer with a bow. I sometimes have a hard time finding deer come gun season... in KY. We (bowhunters) get the whole pre rut and front end of the rut. Its hard to beat the second week in Nov. for bowhunting up here. Once the guns come out everything changes. You have to get back in the thick and the orange army pressures deer into being nearly nocturnal in a few days.

This hasn't been my experience in TN but the places I hunt are different and the pressure seems to be significantly less. KY gets pressure for about 9 days straight in lots of areas.

What say you? Can gun hunting be more of a challenge than bow?

Deer are definitely easier to pattern during bow season. They are more likely to be feeding on point sources (dominant trees) and they are more relaxed when leaves are still on the trees. Acutally making a killing shot is another matter. Much more difficult due to close proximity, required movement, more limited shot placment and angles, need for proper range estimation, and good marksmanship. On balance, I would say that bowhunting is more challenging. I agree with WRbowhunter that bowhunting will definitely improve your hunting skills.

However, it is MUCH more challenging to kill deer with a bow than a gun.