How to Survive Your First Hunting Trip (and Stay Alive)?

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Hunting is an interesting exercise. In all fairness, there is nothing that can beat the thrills and spills of going on a hunting trip. Veterans would agree that hunting is one of the most adventurous sporting activities. Traditionally, hunting was carried out for food. Even today, people love hunting deer and turkey for meat. The meat from a wild game happens to be fresh.

The experience isn’t limited to hunting. It is more about appreciating the outdoors. Hunting is tailor-made for those who love to spend time outdoors. Also, hunting trips provide you with ample opportunities to test your shooting skills.

It goes without saying that you’ll have to take certain things into consideration before hitting the woods. Also, if you’re going on a hunting trip for the first, then you need to take every possible precaution. At times, even hunters can end up becoming the hunted. It’s sad but it’s definitely true.

Here are a few handy tips that’ll help you in your bid to stay alive on your first hunting trip

Plan your trip

Plan, plan, and plan. It is very important to have a mental blueprint of your hunting trip. Conduct comprehensive research and know the place you’re going to. Know the entry and exit points of the forest area you’re travelling to. Also, make sure that the area has cell phone connectivity.

Don’t go alone

This one’s the most important part. If you’re planning to hit the woods for the first time, then take someone along. Also, ensure that the person accompanying you is a trained hunter who knows the forest inside out. In case you get stuck, someone has to be there in order to steer you out of the troubled waters.

Know the weapon you’re using

Another important point. Merely buying a gun won’t do much good. In case you’ve never fired a shot before, then you need to train yourself before going on a hunting trip. There are those who have their heart in their mouth before firing the first shot. Prefer carrying lighter guns, as these can be carried over long distances with ease. Most importantly, you need to make sure that the weapon you’re carrying feels comfortable when held.

Having adequate supplies is important

This one goes pretty much without saying. Having adequate supplies at hand is a must before going hunting. Don’t overload your backpack. Get in touch with an experienced group of hunters and make a list of things. Here’s the list:

Keep some snacks
A hunting knife. You can choose to carry multiple knives for hunting
Water and glucose. It will help you stay hydrated
Guns and ammunition (plenty of it)
A net
A zippo lighter
A tent and a sleeping bag (if you’re planning to stay overnight)
A flashlight

Make sure that all your equipment is in working condition. Also, it is always good to carry additional food and water.

Keep track of the weather conditions

Weather is perhaps one of the most unpredictable things on earth. Make it a point to go glance through the weather reports before planning to go on a hunting trip. It’s better to postpone the trip if the weather is overcast. You don’t want to find yourself in the middle of a precarious situation, do you? Adventure is one thing, but taking the necessary precautions is equally important.

Final words

Hunting is an interesting exercise. To be very honest, there’s nothing quite like a hunting trip. It’s one of the most exciting ways of spending your vacation. You just need to be a bit careful. No hunting trip goes exactly as per plan. Last-minute improvisations are always required. To put things, if you’re well prepared to counter the uncertainties, then your hunting trip will turn out to be a memorable experience.

Happy hunting, folks!

Author Bio:

Having been on the Perkin Knives team for several years as a marketing executive, Billy has been part of a great many top-of-the-line projects. Not only has he personally contributed to the service in every way, but he also happens to be one of the most revered members of Perkin Knives.