Lessons & Memories with Levi Morgan
From his very first experiences in the field to the intense mental focus required to perform at the highest levels, this is a deeper look at what motivates Levi Morgan. We explore how his passion for archery was born, the mindset that keeps him sharp under pressure, and the key habits and gear that make all the difference on every hunt and competition.
What drew you to archery in the first place?
That would’ve been my dad. When I was about three, he started bowhunting with some guys from church, and I just wanted to hang out with him. I dragged my little bow outside and started shooting around four or five. He then began taking me to local tournaments, and I started winning and falling in love with hunting. I’ve had a bow in my hands as long as I can remember, thanks to my dad.
How does your archery setup differ from your hunting setup, and what drives those decisions?
My tournament setup is basically a bigger version of my hunting bow. Because I come from competition, I’ve learned extreme precision. So, my hunting bow is like a scaled-down version of my tournament rig. I take just as much care, maybe more, tuning everything exactly the same way.
What’s one piece of gear you never leave home without?
My range finder, always. I have extra batteries and even backup range finders. I judge yardage for a living, but when hunting, I rely on it heavily. It’s crucial for sighting in my bow and checking my tape at tournaments. It’s always within arm’s reach.
Any advice for improving shot consistency under pressure?
Put yourself in uncomfortable situations and practice all the time. Pressure doesn’t go away, I’m still learning. But competing year-round prepares me for high-stress hunting shots. Nerves and adrenaline spike, so shoot in leagues, with better shooters, join clubs. Get used to that heart rate and learn to stay calm.
Take us back to your most memorable hunt. What made it stand out?
There are a few. Taking my dad on his first elk hunt in New Mexico where we both doubled up. My boys’ first deer, unforgettable moments. And my all-time favorite solo hunt was the quad drop-tine buck on our family farm in Ohio. I freaked out, I never thought I’d see a buck like that, much less kill one. That morning sticks with me forever.
How do you approach shot placement, especially on big game?
It’s mostly about distance, but I always aim to double-lung the animal. That’s the fastest, most reliable kill. Heart shots are great too, but I usually aim at the heart unless the animal is very close (around 10 yards), to allow forgiveness if it ducks. Most animals duck, so even if I hit where I aimed or drop the lungs, it’s effective.
What’s your mental game like before a tournament? How do you prepare?
It varies. Sometimes it’s rough if I haven’t prepared well. The key is to have my equipment 100% dialed, no “I’ll get my marks there” mindset, that never works. Once the gear is perfect, I focus on mental prep, visualizing situations, targets, past mistakes. I do this everywhere, even in the shower or hotel room, always looking for ways to gain extra points.
What’s your routine for early season vs late season archery? Does preparation shift?
Yes, it changes. Early in the year, I shoot a lot more, prepping hard for tournaments like ASA starting in February. I’m super focused then. Later in the year, with distractions like baseball, food plots, turkey season, and fishing, my prep is more scattered. I want to avoid burnout and keep loving archery, not just going through the motions.
Do you adjust your approach based on weather or terrain?
Definitely. Good hunters always watch the weather, cold fronts, wind direction, pressure systems. I love cold, bluebird days during the rut. Terrain matters too because it dictates access and where you can go. Both play huge roles in hunting decisions.
What’s one lesson archery has taught you that applies to life in general?
To be thankful for what you have. No matter what you achieve, you always want more. At 18, I would’ve said yes to five world championships. But with 5, I wanted 6. With 15, I wanted 16. Now, with 16, I want 17. It’s never enough. Archery taught me chasing trophies won’t satisfy you. What lasts is what truly matters, not the trophies or belt buckles, but the things you take with you in life.
Levi Morgan’s journey reminds us that archery is about more than hitting targets, it’s about discipline, mental toughness, and appreciating the moments that matter most. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hunter, taking a page from Levi’s playbook means pushing your limits, caring for your gear, and remembering that the lessons learned in the field translate far beyond it.
Keep shooting, keep learning, and enjoy every step of the journey.