Who loves to hunt? Only anyone who’s reading this! Hunting has been a part of our culture since humans entered the hunter gatherer period. While you may be eager to get out there and hunt, before you do, you need to be prepared for the trip.
Even the experienced hunter can forget to bring an important piece of equipment, so here is a newbie, or refresher list -for the seasoned hunter- of what to have in your hunting packs this season
Your hunting licence
Don’t risk losing your kill to an over zealous warden. Also, it is a good idea to laminate the license, so it is not damaged by the elements. If you license is torn or defaced it is no longer valid. Thus, leaving you open to a fine for hunting illegally (even when you weren’t).
Clean clothing
Hunting trips can last for days, so make sure you have enough clean clothes. It is empirical that you dress for the weather. Hypothermia can be life threatening, so make sure you are prepared.
A first aid kit
All hunting packs should contain a first aid kit. Having a first aid kit is empirical especially because you may be miles away from your vehicle and or the closest hospital. You can buy first aid kits at most department stores for around $20 and they have the bare necessities in them that you’d need to get by if someone was mildly injured.
Water
When hunting, you may not have access to clean water, so the rule of thumb is to have 1 gallon per person per day. Water is also handy for cleaning any game, as well as taking a quick wash if you need one.
A knife
A knife is a practical piece for any huntsman. It is good for hunting down a boar, and a needed tool when gutting your prey.
Food
As ambitious as it would be to think you are going to get a kill, on every trip, that sadly is not the case. Not to mention you may have a friend with you (or even yourself) who has diabetes and needs to eat regularly.
A raincoat
Being out in the elements is a thrill, but not so much when you are cold, wet and get sick because of poor preparations. It is important to have the right jacket, so make sure you visit a hunting and fishing expert for the optimum protection.
A flashlight
Flashlights are just practical. Especially with night time hunting.
A tent/survival blanket
Depending on the length of the trip, and a sudden change in the weather, having some form of shelter will protect you, as well as you expensive equipment.
Toilet paper
Now the need to have this in your pack is a no brainer, but toilet paper has other practical uses, such as you could tear off pieces and stick them on branches to use like bread crumbs (or a map back to camp) in thick bush.
A Game caller
Game callers are a wonderful tool, especially if it has been a few hours since you spotted a doe or stag.
As you can see, there are many tools you need for a successful trip. So with this knowledge there are only three things left to do. Pack your waterproof hunting backpack, grab your gun and have a safe and happy hunting season.
