Preparedness leads to a safer hunting season
All across Northwestern Montana the signs are becoming more obvious each day. Small groups of folks gather around the backs of pickups to admire the trophies they hold. Conversations are punctuated by the common phrase, “Been hunting?”
The snow levels are creeping down into our valleys, pushing elk and deer into the winter ranges. The whitetail rut is becoming more intense. Prime times for many aspects of hunting are upon us, and I bet most of us are ready, or at least we hope so.
For some reason, it always seems to take more time than anticipated to prepare for the serious task of filling our freezers with high-protein meat from the wild lands around us. In many cases, it is a survival mission. Whether one hunts with a significant other, family, friends, youngsters or grandchildren, the wise individual will plan.
Sure, there are the lucky few who just happen to take a big buck out of pure chance, but for the most part, similar to many things in life, what you put into it is what you get out of it.
We rally to get our vehicles in the best shape possible. Tune-ups, oil changes, rotating our tires, and weight behind the wheel wells are standard. Throw in our chains, shovels, kindling, extra water and a sleeping bag just in case. Next, add wheelbarrows or game carts. A ready-to-go chain saw and a long length of strong rope are handy for a blow-down in the road.
In the cab, we have our maps. Put them in a plastic file box, labeled if possible, to keep them organized. A meat pack with some extra rope, flagging, game bags and an extra knife are also useful. Gallon plastic bags for the heart and liver are also a good idea. I carry a small sounding ax from my timber cruising days, which can also be very helpful.
The day pack is an integral part of a wise hunter’s equipment. This can hold, among many other items, knives and sharpening stones, headlamps and flashlights, compact meat saw, fire starter, hand warmers, first aid kit and a space blanket. Using flat kitchen containers can help keep small items organized and dry.
A GPS, map, compass, knife, toilet paper, extra ammo, spare hat and gloves, game calls, rattling devices, electrical tape for your rifle barrel, and your hunting license round out the prepared hunter’s list.
The bottom line is that overly thorough beats the heck out of ill-prepared! A considerate individual carries what he or she needs so that they do not impose on their hunting partners and to ensure that they will return that evening to their loved ones and a warm home.