Best Tips for Mounting an Action Camera to a Bow

Secure your action camera to the bow’s riser using a dedicated, vibration-resistant mount for the sharpest footage. Avoid makeshift solutions—proper alignment and a low-profile setup prevent wind drag and ensure smooth, immersive POV shots during fast-paced archery action.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a secure mount: Use a vibration-resistant bow mount to prevent camera shake and ensure stable footage.
• Position for optimal angle: Mount the camera near the riser for a balanced, forward-facing view of your shot.
• Check balance and draw: Ensure the mount doesn’t interfere with your bow’s balance or drawing motion.
• Use a protective housing: Protect your camera from impacts and weather with a durable, waterproof case.
• Test before hunting: Practice with the mounted camera to confirm comfort, safety, and recording quality.
• Secure all connections: Double-check screws and clamps to avoid losing your camera during use.

Best Tips for Mounting an Action Camera to a Bow

So, you’ve just bagged that trophy buck or sent an arrow straight through the 10-ring at 70 yards—and you want to relive every second of it. But how do you capture that moment without fumbling with a phone or missing the shot entirely? That’s where mounting an action camera to your bow comes in. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter documenting your adventures or an archer looking to analyze your form, a well-mounted action camera can give you a first-person perspective like no other.

But here’s the thing: mounting a camera to a bow isn’t as simple as slapping on a GoPro and hoping for the best. The vibration, recoil, and positioning can make or break your footage. I learned this the hard way on my first hunting trip with a camera rig—my video was so shaky it looked like I was filming during an earthquake. After a few failed attempts, trial and error, and some helpful advice from fellow archers, I finally nailed down a setup that delivered smooth, cinematic shots every time.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about mounting an action camera to a bow—from choosing the right gear to avoiding common mistakes. Whether you’re using a compound bow, recurve, or traditional longbow, these tips will help you capture high-quality footage that’s worth watching (and sharing). Let’s dive in.

Why Mount an Action Camera on Your Bow?

You might be wondering, “Do I really need a camera on my bow?” The short answer is: absolutely—if you want to capture the real experience. A bow-mounted camera gives you a unique, immersive view that no other angle can match. It’s like being inside the shot, feeling the tension of the draw, the release, and the flight of the arrow.

Capture the Shot from Your Perspective

When you’re out in the field or on the range, your viewpoint is the most authentic. A camera mounted on your bow records exactly what you see—the sight picture, the target, the arrow’s path. This is invaluable for both hunters and competitive archers. Hunters can review their shot placement, assess animal behavior, and improve their stealth and timing. Competitive archers can analyze their form, anchor point, and release technique in slow motion.

For example, I once missed a shot on a deer at 30 yards. I was convinced my aim was off, but when I reviewed the footage, I realized my anchor point had shifted slightly during the draw. That one clip helped me correct my form and led to a cleaner shot the next time out.

Document Your Adventures

Let’s be honest—hunting and archery are more than just hobbies. They’re stories. The early morning hikes, the quiet patience, the rush of the shot. A bow-mounted camera lets you preserve those moments in vivid detail. Whether you’re filming for personal memories, YouTube content, or social media, the footage adds a whole new layer to your outdoor experiences.

I’ve used my bow cam to create short films of my hunting trips, and the reactions from friends and family have been incredible. There’s something powerful about seeing the world through your eyes—literally. Plus, it’s a great way to share the sport with people who’ve never tried it.

Improve Your Skills

Beyond storytelling, a bow-mounted camera is a powerful training tool. You can review your shots frame by frame, spot inconsistencies, and track your progress over time. Are you torquing the bow? Is your follow-through consistent? These are subtle details that are hard to notice in real time but become obvious on video.

One archer I know used his camera footage to identify a slight cant in his bow during release. After adjusting his grip, his groupings tightened by nearly 30%. That’s the kind of improvement that can make all the difference in competition or the field.

Choosing the Right Action Camera for Bow Mounting

Not all action cameras are created equal—especially when it comes to mounting on a bow. You need a camera that’s lightweight, durable, and capable of handling the unique challenges of archery. Let’s break down what to look for.

Size and Weight Matter

First and foremost, your camera should be small and light. Adding extra weight to your bow can affect balance, draw weight, and overall performance. Most modern action cameras—like the GoPro Hero series, DJI Osmo Action, or Insta360 GO—are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them ideal for bow mounting.

For example, the GoPro Hero 12 weighs just 154 grams. That’s light enough to mount without throwing off your shot, but still packs 5.3K video, HyperSmooth stabilization, and excellent low-light performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 is another great option, with a larger sensor for better image quality in dim conditions—perfect for early morning or late evening hunts.

Stabilization Is Key

Vibration and movement are the enemies of smooth footage. When you release an arrow, your bow recoils—even if it’s minimal. Without proper stabilization, your video will be shaky and hard to watch. Look for cameras with built-in electronic image stabilization (EIS) or gyroscopic stabilization.

GoPro’s HyperSmooth and DJI’s RockSteady are two of the best stabilization systems on the market. They use advanced algorithms to smooth out motion, even during rapid movements. I’ve tested both, and the difference is night and day. With stabilization on, my footage looks like it was shot with a gimbal—even when I’m drawing and releasing quickly.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Archery often takes place in tough environments—rain, snow, dust, and extreme temperatures. Your camera needs to handle it all. Most action cameras are water-resistant or waterproof without a housing, but check the IP rating to be sure. The GoPro Hero 12, for instance, is waterproof up to 33 feet, which is more than enough for most outdoor conditions.

I once filmed a hunt during a light snowstorm, and my camera kept rolling without a hitch. No fogging, no freezing—just clear, crisp footage. That kind of reliability is essential when you’re miles from the nearest trailhead.

Battery Life and Storage

Nothing’s worse than running out of battery mid-shot. Look for a camera with at least 60–90 minutes of continuous recording time. Many action cameras also support external battery packs or have replaceable batteries, which can extend your shooting time.

Storage is another consideration. High-resolution video takes up space fast. A 1-minute clip in 4K can use over 400MB of storage. Make sure your camera supports high-capacity microSD cards (up to 1TB) and consider carrying spare cards or a portable drive if you’re filming all day.

Types of Bow Mounts and How to Choose

Now that you’ve picked your camera, it’s time to choose a mount. There are several types of bow mounts available, each with its own pros and cons. The right one depends on your bow type, shooting style, and filming goals.

Sight Mounts

Sight mounts are one of the most popular options. They attach directly to your bow’s sight housing, placing the camera just above or beside your sight pins. This gives you a nearly perfect first-person view of your target.

Pros:

• Minimal interference with shooting
• Stable and secure
• Easy to align with your sight picture

Cons:

• May require drilling or modification
• Can add weight to the front of the bow
• Not all sights are compatible

I use a sight mount on my compound bow, and it’s been rock solid. The camera sits just to the left of my sight, so I can see the pins and the target in the same frame. It took a little tweaking to get the angle right, but now it’s dialed in perfectly.

Riser Mounts

Riser mounts attach to the bow’s riser—the central part of the bow that you hold. These mounts are great for recurve and traditional bows that don’t have a sight housing.

Pros:

• Universal fit for most bows
• No drilling required (with clamp-on models)
• Keeps the camera close to your hand for a natural perspective

Cons:

• Can interfere with grip if not positioned carefully
• May shift during draw if not tightened properly

I’ve used a riser mount on my longbow, and it works well as long as I keep it tight. I recommend using a mount with a rubberized clamp to prevent slipping and protect the finish on your bow.

Quiver Mounts

Quiver mounts attach to your bow quiver, placing the camera near the arrow rest. This angle gives a slightly lower perspective, which can be great for showing arrow flight.

Pros:

• Easy to install and remove
• Doesn’t interfere with sight or grip
• Good for showing arrow trajectory

Cons:

• May vibrate more due to arrow contact
• Can be knocked loose by brush or branches

This mount is ideal if you want to capture the arrow’s path from release to impact. I’ve used it during 3D archery shoots, and the footage of arrows flying through the woods is stunning.

DIY and Custom Mounts

If you’re handy, you can create your own mount using 3D printing, PVC pipe, or even zip ties (in a pinch). DIY mounts let you customize the angle, position, and stability to your exact needs.

I once made a temporary mount using a GoPro clamp and a piece of aluminum rod. It wasn’t pretty, but it held up through a full day of shooting. Just be sure to test it thoroughly before relying on it in the field.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Your Camera

Ready to mount your camera? Follow these steps to ensure a secure, stable, and effective setup.

Step 1: Choose the Mounting Location

Decide where you want the camera based on your shooting style and the type of footage you want. For most archers, the sight or riser is the best spot. Avoid areas that move during the draw or release, like the arrow rest or cable guard.

Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Surface

Wipe down the mounting area with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt, oil, and moisture. A clean surface ensures better adhesion for adhesive mounts and prevents slipping.

Step 3: Attach the Mount Securely

If using a clamp-on mount, tighten it firmly but don’t overtighten—this can damage your bow. For adhesive mounts, press firmly and let the adhesive cure for at least 24 hours before use.

Step 4: Position the Camera

Angle the camera so it captures your sight picture and target. Use the camera’s preview screen or a companion app to check the framing. Avoid pointing it directly at the sun to prevent lens flare.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

Shoot a few practice arrows and review the footage. Is the image stable? Is the target in frame? Make small adjustments as needed. It may take a few tries to get it just right.

Step 6: Secure Cables and Accessories

If you’re using an external microphone or power bank, route the cables neatly and secure them with zip ties or tape. Loose cables can snag or interfere with your shot.

Tips for Getting the Best Footage

Mounting your camera is just the first step. To get truly great footage, you need to think like a filmmaker.

Use a Wide-Angle Lens

Most action cameras have a wide-angle lens by default, which is perfect for bow mounting. It captures more of the scene and helps stabilize the image by reducing the appearance of shake.

Shoot in High Resolution

Record in at least 1080p, but 4K is ideal if your camera supports it. Higher resolution gives you more detail and allows for cropping in post-production without losing quality.

Enable Stabilization

Always turn on electronic stabilization. It’s the single biggest factor in smooth footage. If your camera has multiple stabilization modes, use the highest setting for the best results.

Frame Your Shots Thoughtfully

Keep the target centered and leave some space above and below. Avoid pointing the camera straight down, as this can make the footage feel disorienting.

Use a Remote or Timer

To avoid touching the camera during the shot, use a wireless remote or set a timer. This prevents accidental bumps and keeps your hands free for shooting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best gear, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overlooking Vibration Dampening

Bow vibration can ruin your footage. Use rubber washers or vibration-dampening mounts to absorb shock. Some mounts come with built-in dampeners—look for these if you shoot frequently.

Mounting Too Close to Moving Parts

Avoid placing the camera near the arrow rest, cable guard, or limbs, as these parts move during the shot. This can cause blur or shake in your video.

Ignoring Battery and Storage

Always carry spare batteries and memory cards. There’s nothing worse than missing the perfect shot because your camera died.

Forgetting to Check the Angle

A crooked camera makes your footage look unprofessional. Use a level or the camera’s grid lines to ensure it’s straight.

Not Testing Before the Hunt

Never mount your camera for the first time in the field. Test it at home or at the range to make sure everything works and the footage looks good.

Recommended Gear and Accessories

Here’s a quick reference table of top gear for mounting an action camera to a bow:

Item	Recommended Model	Key Features
Action Camera	GoPro Hero 12	5.3K video, HyperSmooth stabilization, waterproof
Bow Mount	GoPro Bow Mount (Sight Style)	Secure fit, minimal vibration, easy installation
Stabilization	DJI Osmo Action 4	RockSteady 3.0, large sensor, excellent low-light
Extra Battery	GoPro Enduro Battery	Longer life, cold-weather performance
Memory Card	SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB	High-speed, reliable, U3 rated

Final Thoughts

Mounting an action camera to your bow opens up a whole new world of storytelling, training, and adventure. It’s not just about capturing the shot—it’s about preserving the experience, improving your skills, and sharing your passion with others.

From choosing the right camera and mount to avoiding common mistakes, every detail matters. But with the right setup and a little practice, you’ll be amazed at what you can create. Whether you’re filming a quiet morning in the woods or a high-stakes competition, your bow-mounted camera will give you a perspective like no other.

So grab your gear, head out, and start filming. The next great shot—and the story behind it—is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to mount an action camera to a bow?

The most secure and effective method is using a dedicated bow mount designed for action cameras, such as a riser or stabilizer mount. These provide a stable, vibration-resistant platform that won’t interfere with your shot.

Can I use a standard action camera mount on a bow?

Standard mounts may not fit securely on a bow’s curved or textured surfaces, leading to shaky footage or detachment. It’s better to use a bow-specific mount or a flexible adhesive mount that conforms to the bow’s shape.

Will mounting an action camera affect my bow’s performance?

If mounted properly with a lightweight camera and balanced position, the impact on performance is minimal. Avoid heavy setups or mounts that alter the bow’s center of gravity to maintain accuracy and comfort.

Where should I position the camera for the best hunting footage?

Mount the camera near the riser or on the stabilizer for a forward-facing view that captures your target and release. This angle provides immersive footage while keeping the camera out of the way of the string and limbs.

How do I reduce vibration when mounting an action camera to a bow?

Use a vibration-dampening mount or add rubber washers between the camera and bow to absorb shock. Recording in a higher frame rate (like 60fps) also helps smooth out minor vibrations in post-processing.

Are there waterproof action camera mounts for bow hunting?

Yes, many bow mounts are made from weather-resistant materials and work well with waterproof action cameras. Ensure all connections are secure and consider a protective housing if hunting in wet or muddy conditions.