Hone archery skills at new business

by David Boyle
News Director
As the spring season approaches, bow hunters in San Juan County are gaining a unique opportunity to sharpen their skills.
Archery Mountain Training, a new venture founded by local resident Justin Redd, will launch a series of weekly 3D bow hunting courses beginning April 11 and running through August 8.
Operating every Saturday in the La Sal Mountains, the program aims to provide a more authentic training experience than traditional target practice.
Redd, who appeared on the Red Rock Morning Show on March 24, explained that the core mission of the course is to prepare hunters for "real-life shots".
Unlike standard courses that often feature flat pictures or hay bales, Archery Mountain Training utilizes 18 dense, life-sized 3D targets weighing between 80 and 100 pounds.
These targets are placed in challenging terrain, forcing participants to navigate steep angles, shoot through brush, or crouch behind obstacles—scenarios that mirror the actual conditions of a hunt.
“Realisticly, when you go out there and you have an animal at a 30-degree angle up on a hill... this is designed so that you can capitalize and actually make that shot happen,” Redd said during the interview.
To ensure variety and continued skill development, the course layout will change weekly, offering new challenges for regular attendees.
The program is designed for all ages and skill levels. Using a system similar to golf "tee-offs," the course features different lines for different capabilities, with shots ranging from 20 to 100 yards.
Traditional shooters, who typically limit shots to 40 yards, can use closer lines, while more experienced hunters can test their range.
To maintain a "premium experience," the organizers are implementing "tee times" to prevent crowding and ensure participants do not feel rushed.
For Redd, the project is deeply personal. Growing up hunting in the La Sal Mountains, he credits bow hunting and mentorship with changing the trajectory of his life. He recalled how a hunter took him under his wing after taking a massive 200-inch buck on the family ranch, proving that big game could be taken with a bow.
“That type of mentorship just changed the trajectory of what I want to do with my life... and honestly just kept me out of a lot of trouble,” Redd shared.
Beyond personal development, the course has a conservationist goal. Redd expressed a desire to improve hunter proficiency to reduce the number of animals wounded by poor shots.
By providing a space for consistent practice, he hopes to ensure that when hunters get their opportunity in the fall, it is a successful shot rather than a "Hail Mary".
The course is located right off the main road in La Sal. Redd noted that the location is easily accessible even for small passenger vehicles, with the start of the course marked by large flags east of the local store.
Youth memberships for those 15 and younger are $350 with 16+ memberships priced at $550. Daily rates are $35 for youth and $55 for those 16 and older.
Memberships guarantee a spot every Saturday, include three entries into a skill-based giveaway for a Matthews bow and other gear, and offer a significant discount over paying the weekly day rate.
Those interested in participating or seeking more information are encouraged to text the word "MOUNTAIN" to 512-816-0004.