You should be able to hold it steady for at least 1 minute---be prepared for up to 5. Learn and practice to let your bow down as slow as possible. Even if deer look at you, it's usually only for a brief amount of time---30 seconds to 1 minute. After that let the bow down, relax, and redraw when the shot opens up.

If your season opens soon, invest in a bow holster, one you can strap around your thigh or waist. Then if you have to hold for long periods of time, you can set the bow down in the holster, relieving much of the weight.

S&R