June 26, 2025

Travis Mears – Overcoming Competition Pressure in Sporting Clays, Practice Structure, Shooting at Your Highest Level - Matson Shooting Academy Podcast

49 minutes

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In this episode of the Matson Shooting Academy podcast, host Cody Matson welcomes Travis Mears, a seasoned shooter and owner of Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch. Travis shares his journey from a young shooter to a competitive athlete, discussing his early experiences, the establishment of his shooting range, and his current competitive season. The conversation delves into the mental strategies required to handle pressure during competitions, the importance of preparation, and the need for consistency in shooting techniques. Travis emphasizes the significance of practice and the mental game in achieving success in shooting sports. In this conversation, Travis Mears shares insights on developing a personal shooting style, the importance of adapting techniques to individual needs, and the significance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. He discusses the '20% rule' for hitting fast targets, the necessity of understanding target presentations, and how to visualize lead and distance. Mears also touches on the crossover between trick shooting and tournament shooting, emphasizing the need to switch mindsets between practice and competition. The discussion concludes with an invitation to upcoming shooting events and a call to explore the world of shooting further.

Travis Mears

Website: https://www.travismears.com/

Defender Outdoors: https://defenderoutdoors.com/

Shotgun Passion with Travis Mears YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6yvB-9Fa6s59e9uNEOH7w

Cody Matson: (770) 293-8820

Matson Shooting Academy: https://www.matsonshootingacademy.com/

Takeaways

· Travis founded Defender Outdoors Clay Sports Ranch to combine his passion for shooting with business.

· He emphasizes the importance of mental strategies in overcoming pressure during competitions.

· Preparation for competitions involves extensive practice and setting personal goals.

· Travis believes in the importance of consistency in shooting techniques.

· He advocates for a focused approach to practice, simulating competition conditions.

· Travis shares insights on how to handle pressure and maintain composure during shoots.

· He discusses the significance of visualizing targets and executing routines effectively.

· Travis highlights the need for shooters to find their rhythm and maintain efficiency throughout their rounds. You have to build your own style and routine.

· The more tools you have in your toolbox, the better off you'll be.

· The 20% rule helps with big fast targets.

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By Will Fennell, Dawn Grant, Cody Matson & Cade Faetche

4.8

2525 ratings