At Etowah Valley Sporting Clays, we’re passionate about helping guests of all levels build confidence on the clays course. Whether you’re just starting out or fine-tuning your skills, it’s easy to fall into a few common habits that can affect your success.
Here are three frequent missteps we see on the course and simple ways to correct them.
1️⃣ Moving Too Fast at the Start
One of the most common challenges? Rushing to take the first shot.
It’s natural to want to react the moment you see the clay target leave the trap house. But reacting too quickly often means your eyes and body aren’t fully synced, leading to misses.
✅ Tip: Set a mental pick-up point—a spot where you want to clearly see the target before engaging.
✅ Let your eyes lock in, let your body follow, and then make your smooth, confident move toward the target.
Pausing just long enough to let your mind and body connect makes a world of difference.
2️⃣ Using Equipment That Doesn’t Fit Well
Sometimes, accuracy issues come down to fit and comfort – not form.
Since a shotgun relies on your eye as the rear sight, it should feel like a natural extension of you. A poor fit can slow you down, throw off alignment, and even cause unnecessary discomfort.
✅ Length of pull: If the stock is too long, it may snag or slow your motion. Too short, and you might feel more recoil.
✅ Drop at comb and heel: These help align your line of sight with the barrel. Standard measurements (1 5/8″ at comb and 2 ½” at heel) work well for most people.
3️⃣ Sticking with the Same Choke Throughout the Course
Another common mistake? Not adapting your setup to match different distances.
Different clays presentations call for different combinations.
✅ Mid-range (up to 30 yards): Improved Cylinder + No. 8 or 7½ hard lead
✅ Long-range: Modified or Full choke + No. 7½ trap loads
Adjusting as you go can dramatically improve consistency.
Please note: Etowah Valley Sporting Clays accepts 12, 16, 20, or 28 gauges only on our courses.
How Etowah Valley Can Help You Succeed
🌟 We offer lessons tailored for all experience levels, from newcomers to those refining advanced techniques.
🌟 Gear rentals and safety equipment available on-site, so you can show up ready to focus on your experience.
🌟 After your lesson, enjoy six thoughtfully designed courses that help develop your skills at every level.
📍 Located at 619 Sporting Hill Dr., Dawsonville, GA
📞 (706) 265-1611
🕗 Open Thursday–Sunday | 8 AM–5 PM
🕶️ Remember to wear both eye and ear protection while out on our courses
🦺 Be sure to check out our Rules and Safety page before arriving
🚫 No reservations required
For information about upland hunts, contact Alex Becker who manages the Etowah Valley Game Preserve at (678) 410-0983.
Etowah Valley Sporting Clays offers shooting lessons for up to six guests, with private instruction also available. Lessons are available for any skill level and especially for beginners. Shotguns are available for rent; ammunition is available for purchase. Guests are required to wear ear and eye protection while out on the coures.
Students are invited to try their skills when lessons conclude on six different courses. Those are designed to improve wing shooting skills for upland game hunting or to add appeal to the sport of clay shooting.
