Post by: Mike Bolin on June 30, 2011, 11:23:00 AM
One thing that he told me when I was only 5 years old that has paid off time and time again is-"look where you been". We were in a big woodlot checking out some timber to be cut and I noticed that he kept looking behind him and I asked why. He told me that if "you look where you been" you'll have an easier time finding your way back. Pretty simple really, but it has paid off for me in Quebec tracking Black Bear and and further north chasing Caribou.
One time I got so involved in a blood trail that I didn't keep track of my back trail and ended up "confused" for about an hour. Hit a logging road and made my way back to the truck and then the blood trail, but I have to say I paid alot more attention to my surroundings after that.
May be ridiculously simple, but most times, simple is better!! Share a tip if you have one! Mike
Post by: ronp on June 30, 2011, 11:26:00 AM
Post by: 7 Lakes on June 30, 2011, 11:31:00 AM
Post by: 7 Lakes on June 30, 2011, 11:33:00 AM
Post by: hawk22 on June 30, 2011, 11:36:00 AM
Post by: BowMIke on June 30, 2011, 11:52:00 AM
Post by: ChrisM on June 30, 2011, 11:54:00 AM
Post by: GO Rogers on June 30, 2011, 11:58:00 AM
Post by: Jake Diebolt on June 30, 2011, 12:20:00 PM
Post by: TIM B on June 30, 2011, 12:20:00 PM
Hunt any time u can.
Hunt while your young and CAN'T afford it- cause when you can afford it, you may not be young
Post by: Bud B. on June 30, 2011, 01:02:00 PM
If not that way, take a rope and hang'em up for gutting.
Post by: Mike Vines on June 30, 2011, 01:07:00 PM
If your wife is happy, you will stay happy. If she's not...Well you know the rest.
Post by: graybarkhunter on June 30, 2011, 01:07:00 PM
Post by: 58WINTERS on June 30, 2011, 01:09:00 PM
get a good compass learn to use it and TRUST it.
Post by: Rebel Yelp on June 30, 2011, 01:09:00 PM
Wear a whistle. Decide signals for I'm hurt, I'm lost, and deer down.
Also trust your compass. Take a reading before you set foot in the woods. Know how to get out.
I hunt the Adirondacks every year. This past year we took a day to try out different State Land. No trails, footpaths, cell phone reception... just wilderness. After scouting and hunting, it didn't take long to look behind me and realize everything is starting to look the same... I got into "ok... after this hill is the road." That went on for some time and I started to panic that I had been walking off course for some time trying to get out.
I pulled out my compass and put my faith in it. I didn't recognize any of the terrain, but found my way out. I was considerably off course, you could only see the dirt road if you were within 30 feet of it.
I've heard stories about this experience happening to others and truly understand how it happens. It almost got the best of me. Honestly I was close to "I read my compass wrong, and the way out is not what I thought it was... I should have been out by now."
I had a real chilling thought afterward about someone standing only 30 feet from the road in a state of panic and then walking off for days.
Post by: SheltonCreeker on June 30, 2011, 01:17:00 PM
Post by: Squirrel Bait on June 30, 2011, 01:21:00 PM
Post by: John Scifres on June 30, 2011, 01:24:00 PM
Sit longer than you walk.
The longer you observe the woods the better woodsman you will be.
Post by: BuckyT on June 30, 2011, 01:26:00 PM
You might be surprised that a 200lb buck can sound like a chipmunk rummaging through the leaves.
Post by: straitera on June 30, 2011, 01:47:00 PM
Post by: emac396 on June 30, 2011, 01:56:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by graybarkhunter:I believe this 100%
never look a deer in the eyes...
Post by: two4hooking on June 30, 2011, 02:06:00 PM
Plus it forces you to slow down and look.
Post by: Archie on June 30, 2011, 02:08:00 PM
I try to think never to place something where it shouldn't be forgotten. I NEVER set my bow down behind my car. I never even set a broadhead in a place where a child could get ahold of it, or where it could hurt someone. Not even for a moment. I got a Bodkin through my knee at 13 years old, and the scar helps me to remember! I set things only in places where I could find them if I forget them. Knife, cell phone, keys, etc.
Archie
Post by: Kenny Henderson on June 30, 2011, 02:11:00 PM
Post by: USN_Sam1385 on June 30, 2011, 02:19:00 PM
Get your tow up rope ready, get the stand hung, etc. Do as much as you can particularly in the early season to avoid sweating and bumbling around in the wee morning hours darkness.
Post by: misfire on June 30, 2011, 02:34:00 PM
Yep, more than once.
Post by: Jake Allen on June 30, 2011, 02:40:00 PM
When you shoot a deer, take your compass and mark
the spot of impact, the last spot you saw the deer,
the last place you hear the deer. Use these three to decide the direction of travel the deer took.
Keep your compass in your left hand when in the woods.
Hunting with a stickbow will make you a better hunter. Dang, it has made me a much better predator.
Hunt an isolated feed tree.
Scout for acorns with good binos.
Keep a written log.
Post by: wtpops on June 30, 2011, 02:45:00 PM
Think im going to get a compass, ive always banked on my GPS but ya never know, one of these days....
Post by: Buckeye Trad Hunter on June 30, 2011, 02:47:00 PM
Post by: TSHOOTER on June 30, 2011, 02:56:00 PM
Post by: TomBow on June 30, 2011, 03:15:00 PM
GPS units are nice to have but trust your compass--it doesn't require batteries Or a good satellite signal.
Best of luck to you and yours,
TomBow
Post by: Dave Earley on June 30, 2011, 03:18:00 PM
Post by: bryan r on June 30, 2011, 03:28:00 PM
Post by: Cherokee Scout on June 30, 2011, 03:40:00 PM
Post by: Rob W. on June 30, 2011, 03:42:00 PM
Post by: Sixby on June 30, 2011, 03:43:00 PM
This one has held me in good stead for 50 years. With patience possess ye your soul.
Oh one more. Jack O conner wrote this and I have proven it many times. If you are tracking a wounded animal and lose the track follow the general direction of travel to the closest water. I have found bucks several times bedded right next to a creek.
God bless you all, Steve
Post by: Rob W. on June 30, 2011, 03:47:00 PM
Post by: Bill Turner on June 30, 2011, 03:47:00 PM
Post by: wooddamon1 on June 30, 2011, 03:50:00 PM
Post by: Ron LaClair on June 30, 2011, 04:26:00 PM
Use fletching you can see, it will help determine where you hit. If the hit is bad, back off for several hours. White or chartreuse feathers are good.
We use our eyes and ears in the woods but try using your nose also, it can be useful at times.
Post by: Nor'easter on June 30, 2011, 04:58:00 PM
... I knew better it was this way out but the compass said that way. Walked into my hunting partner alittle after dark coming from where I was going. Checked his compass and sure enough I was being led deeper and deeper into the Maine north woods.
Now it's ALWAYS 2 compasses.
Also...water and first aid with QuikClot kit. Those broadheads/knives are sharp (or should be).
Post by: Don Stokes on June 30, 2011, 05:00:00 PM
After taking a rest break and sitting for a while, take three steps and look back. Eventually you'll see your binoculars, cushion, calls, gloves, or something else you've left behind.
If you spook deer that haven't smelled you, sit down immediately and wait. Some deer will come back to see what made the noise that spooked them.
Post by: snag on June 30, 2011, 05:02:00 PM
Post by: Bowwild on June 30, 2011, 05:09:00 PM
When field dressing, if you have much of a drag, especially through mud, dirt or dead leaves, make the hole to remove the entrails as small as possible to keep the cavity clean. You can make it bigger to get the esophagus and anus out later. Splitting the pelvis or sternum is more than you need at this point. From the front of the pelvis to the edge of the sternum is all you need.
Post by: Shedrock on June 30, 2011, 05:10:00 PM
It's better to have too much water with you than not enough.
Just be prepared.
Post by: USN_Sam1385 on June 30, 2011, 05:26:00 PM
Post by: KHALVERSON on June 30, 2011, 05:32:00 PM
Post by: JJB on June 30, 2011, 05:41:00 PM
Post by: krink on June 30, 2011, 05:43:00 PM
Aim small, miss small.
A stand that has not been hunted in a while or a freshly set stand has a better chance to produce sighting of deer.
Do your business at the cabin before going out on a hunt or there will be embarrasing pictures of you with your butt hung over a log.
All were said by my dad and all were said after I made a mistake...and yes he has showed my wife the picture of the 12 year old me with my rear flung over a log. Gotta love dads.
Post by: RC on June 30, 2011, 06:12:00 PM
Aim Low.
Trust your compass and use a good one.
If your hunting deep woods as I do carry two flashlights.
Never get in a hurry.
If your hunting starts to feel like work stop and take the Wife out for dinner or catch up on some chores.Learn to enjoy every minute.
Last but most Important Thank the Good Lord for having the Freedom and means to go hunting.RC
Post by: Shedrock on June 30, 2011, 06:14:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by USN_Sam1385:Weather can change quick. Just today I killed a family group of coyotes, then went to hunt the den down, to remove the pups, and I was just in a t-shirt, and plenty warm. I was about a mile from the truck, when low and behold comes the clouds, wind, hail, and rain. The temp dropped about 20 degrees. I was wet, shivering cold, and my body was full of welts from the hail. I should know better. A light jacket carried along would have helped me a bunch. Hypothermia is a killer.
@Shedrock: If it is early season sometimes I would rather have not enough clothes on and be cold, then too many clothes and start sweating. Avoiding sweating in September is my BIGGEST challenge. As soon as I start sweating it seems like I get busted by every deer that comes in.
Like I said, too much clothes is better then not enough.
Post by: Cambow on June 30, 2011, 06:17:00 PM
And a tube of super glue for emergency first aid on cuts...
Post by: overbo on June 30, 2011, 06:21:00 PM
Post by: Hopewell Tom on June 30, 2011, 06:37:00 PM
When I went to Ranger School, we were taught the names of all the trees here in the Maritimes. The teacher said that the woods would look totally different when we had this info and man was he right. Every tree is different, so one that stands out for you may help later if you get "turned around". White Birch bark (the pieces that hang off the tree like paper) are an excellent fire starter. Burns with an oily black smoke.
Learn to pay attention to the sky and cloud formations. It's a lost art from ago, but works to portent all sorts of things.
Post by: snag on June 30, 2011, 06:37:00 PM
Post by: Mojostick on June 30, 2011, 06:38:00 PM
You cannot bring both.
If you bring both, you'll find that a camp full of guys with both chili and sauerkraut and kielbasa, mixed with beer, makes for a volatile situation.
Post by: skilonbw on June 30, 2011, 06:42:00 PM
Post by: 7 Lakes on June 30, 2011, 06:47:00 PM
Post by: Benoli on June 30, 2011, 07:29:00 PM
Post by: Bowwild on June 30, 2011, 07:45:00 PM
Post by: Scott Teaschner on June 30, 2011, 08:13:00 PM
Post by: ron w on June 30, 2011, 08:49:00 PM
Post by: ChrisM on June 30, 2011, 09:02:00 PM
Post by: Over&Under on June 30, 2011, 09:18:00 PM
If you are like me and don't chew, tell your buddy to save ya a can.
Practice building a fire with different methods before you go afield its not as easy as you think, especially in the heat of the moment. (Pun intended )
Post by: TxAg on June 30, 2011, 10:59:00 PM
Post by: fatman on June 30, 2011, 11:04:00 PM
Post by: JimB on June 30, 2011, 11:19:00 PM
Post by: hardwaymike on June 30, 2011, 11:29:00 PM
Post by: TxAg on June 30, 2011, 11:58:00 PM
Post by: vermonster13 on July 01, 2011, 12:02:00 AM
Post by: ironmike on July 01, 2011, 12:36:00 AM
Post by: slivrslingr on July 01, 2011, 12:47:00 AM
Carry a headlamp instead of a flashlight, two free hands are always better than one. (Anyone that has gutted a deer in the dark while holding a flashlight in their teeth knows what I'm talking about!)
Hunt the wind! Be willing to change your game plan if the wind isn't cooperating.
Post by: bowslinger on July 01, 2011, 01:03:00 AM
Carry a roll of white cotton thread to attach to the ends of your bow. Very good, cheap, biodegradable, wind inidcators.
Carry a wine bottle cork and a lighter for cheap face paint. Let one end of the cork burn a little to get enough soot to get the coverage you want. One or two tries and you will figure it out.
Carry a whistle and a cheap, small, plastic camping mirror to signal with in case you really get lost.
Arm and Hammer unscented deodorant is one of the best scent free deodorants you can buy.
Did somebody say compass? Saved my butt a few times. Trust your compass. Practice builds trust. Make a game out of using a compass with your friends/kids to feel comfortable with one. Try using one in teh dark with a flashlight to navigate out of a small area in the dark to see how well work.
If you walk out in the dark in woods and don't wear glasses, carry a cheap pair of clear safety glasses. Could save your eye.
Post by: Thumper Dunker on July 01, 2011, 03:33:00 AM
Post by: Pete McMiller on July 01, 2011, 06:44:00 AM
Know how to find dry tinder and build a fire in ANY conditions. from my own experience.
Post by: Bowwild on July 01, 2011, 06:52:00 AM
Your step over tip makes good sense, especially in seasons or weather when snakes aren't up and about. However, in snake season and country I'm more likely to step up on a log and make sure the off side is snake-free than stepping over. People are sometimes bitten when stepping to the far side of a snake hidey hole that they couldn't see.
Post by: Bowwild on July 01, 2011, 07:02:00 AM
2. To reduce the number of arrows in your quiver you can carry (safely please) spare broadheads in small containers in your pack. An errant arrow pulled from the dirt can be affixed with a new broadhead.
3. Learn the birds and trees (someone above mentioned the trees as well). It will make your time more enjoyable. Of course knowing the trees can be crucial to scouting success from a deer food standpoint -- Persimmon trees can be fantastic spots for candy-loving deer!
4. You can carry a wet washcloth (or wipes) in a zip-lock to clean up hands and knife after field dressing to keep from bloodying your gear, steering wheel, etc. I especially do this when squirrel hunting.
Post by: calgarychef on July 01, 2011, 07:09:00 AM
Dont' take iffy shots on the other hand a shot not taken is always a miss.
trust your instinct on the shot, I don't know how many times I've been lined up and decided to adjust my aim and missed, the first instinct is the best.
On wilderness trips baby wipes are nicer on the nether regions than toilet paper. Or as Tucker says "a clean butt is a happy butt"
Always be careful when lowering your bow from a stand, if an arrow falls out of the quiver it can get hung up with the point facing up, ready to impale you.
always have an extra string and tab or glove
batteries go dead at the wrong times, carry spares for everything
a small knife will do more than a large one.
Post by: LONGSTYKES on July 01, 2011, 07:33:00 AM
Post by: monk on July 01, 2011, 07:41:00 AM
Post by: Roger Norris on July 01, 2011, 08:09:00 AM
I was lucky to have a few great Woodsman mentor me. My Grandfather was a true Yooper ( he refered to his breeding as that of a "Jackpine Savage" :) , my Uncle Jack, who had a knack for being comfortable in the woods, and later in life Ron LaClair. Ron gets a lot of recognition as a traditional bowhunter/archer, but his knowledge and experience of the wild places is a gold mine. I'm near 50, and I feel like a little kid when we are in camp. He has upped my woodsmanship knowledge ( I hesitate to use the word skill) ten fold.
I feel strongly that we are losing our heritage of woodsmanship skills. Strongly enough that I have started a website to record some of them. I'm not selling anything, just writing about traditional woodsmanship skills.
Tradgang is a great place this as well. As long as we have threads like this going, hopefully the youngsters will never think the only way to spend time in the woods is on an ATV, with a GPS, etc.....
Post by: Jim Boettcher on July 01, 2011, 08:25:00 AM
Post by: deaddoc4444 on July 01, 2011, 08:37:00 AM
Post by: KentuckyTJ on July 01, 2011, 08:51:00 AM
Post by: bolong on July 01, 2011, 04:24:00 PM
Post by: owlbait on July 01, 2011, 04:55:00 PM
Post by: Pete McMiller on July 01, 2011, 05:00:00 PM
Never even thought about snakes - yikes. I don't hunt where there are snakes or maybe just non-poisonous variety. You make a good point though and worth thinking about.
Post by: NoCams on July 01, 2011, 05:55:00 PM
A few though I learned from others and a few of my own.
1) Keep a Gerber folding saw, $19.99, in every climbing stand you own. Priceless !
2) The nylon strap that holds your Summit Viper stand pieces cinched tight together for packing makes an AWESOME doe drag. Mason calls it, " Her necklace or leash. " "Okay Dad, she is gutted, now put her leash on and walk her home. "
3) You will never own a sharper knife or broadhead than one that has been sharpened on a KME sharpener.
4) Never ever pass up the opp to scout in fresh snow or when it is raining softly. Snow tells you EVERYTHING and rain allows you to slip along quietly not disturbing the area and washing your scent away.
5) If hunting a proven tree or area and not seeing deer like normal pick up and move a few hundred yards if needed. Don't stay in the same tree too long, adjust till you get back on them.
6) When you get to the sternum move over left or right and cut thru the cartilage than connects the ribs to the sternum instead of the sternum. Cut the esophagus as far up in the neck as you can and stick your fingers in for a handle to pull everything down and out.
7)Wool, Wool, Wool in Predator Fall Gray on the outside and Ullfrotte' wool on the inside.
8)Google Earth the most awesome scouting tool on the planet and it is FREE !!!
9)As tempting as it can be, NEVER take the quartering to you shot..... NEVER !
10) Clean and clear shooting lanes in and around your stand in summer. Cost me a huge 9 point two years ago when I knew better but was lazy, ughhh!
Post by: Hoyt on July 01, 2011, 06:46:00 PM
Post by: tree dancer on July 01, 2011, 06:50:00 PM
Post by: SuperK on July 01, 2011, 10:49:00 PM
Post by: Charlie Lamb on July 01, 2011, 11:19:00 PM
Post by: levibear on July 02, 2011, 12:57:00 AM
Post by: GRINCH on July 02, 2011, 01:26:00 AM
Post by: Steve Clandinin on July 02, 2011, 02:44:00 AM
Post by: ozy clint on July 02, 2011, 04:50:00 AM
also my signiture goes a long way....
Post by: RC on July 02, 2011, 11:26:00 AM
Post by: gobblegrunter on July 02, 2011, 12:31:00 PM
Post by: koger on July 02, 2011, 01:43:00 PM
Hunt the moon phase, bright side, 10-2 midday, dark side, first and last 2 hours of daylight, works for me about 75% of the time last 20 years.
Carry a good, small pair of binos, and always look in shaded areas under foliage ahead ofyou while scouting, stalking. You wont believe the number of game you have been missing.
Camo you face and hands, relighously, gloves or paint!
Keep your knives and broadheads razor sharp, dull knives will get you hurt.
Post by: Don Stokes on July 02, 2011, 03:19:00 PM
Post by: PaddyMac on July 02, 2011, 03:23:00 PM
You can learn a lot about stalking and stillhunting by watching cats hunt mice.
Get out of your camo the minute you get back to camp and store it in plastic bags away from fire. Don't wear it in town unless it's no good any more to hunt in. (It's most effective new and washed as little as possible.)
Post by: SAM E. STEPHENS on July 02, 2011, 03:34:00 PM
Post by: LongStick64 on July 02, 2011, 05:42:00 PM
Post by: Recurve50 LBS on July 02, 2011, 06:19:00 PM
Post by: ron w on July 02, 2011, 07:30:00 PM
Post by: robtattoo on July 02, 2011, 07:52:00 PM
Boiled sweets (hard candy) really do stop you getting bored in a stand.
Always carry 3 or 4 small screw-in hooks (99c each from Wally's) in your pack or climber. Perfect for hanging your bow or pack. (And makes building an emergency shelter a LOT easier.)
Plot the Cardinal Compass points, whilst sitting in your stand. That way, you'll have a rough idea what the weather man is talking about!
Post by: robtattoo on July 02, 2011, 07:59:00 PM
No matter where you're hunting, how close to home, always, always tell someone where you're going to be. Tell them what time to expect you home, at the very latest & make sure they know who to call if you're not back on time. Just bcause you're late, doesn't mean you're injured, dead or lost, you may just be trailing & lost track of time! Call a friend BEFORE you call the Emergency Services!
Post by: Outwest on July 02, 2011, 08:30:00 PM
Three hours is not to long to spend on a stalk.
John
Post by: TxAg on July 02, 2011, 09:00:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by levibear:I plan on doin a lot more of that this year
Hunt at mid day please believe me on this one
Post by: Trumpkin the Dwarf on July 02, 2011, 10:02:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Outwest:x2!
When stalking bedded or feeding animals go sloooow.
Three hours is not to long to spend on a stalk.
John
This one is especially useful for all the elk hunters. Take note of any shady creeks and/or springs while you hunt, as well as the fastest route back from wherever you go. Those areas will be a good 10 to 15 degrees cooler at mid day, enough to save your meat from spoiling if you kill in hot weather.
Post by: sputterman on July 03, 2011, 12:00:00 AM
Wind in your face you dont gotta chase.
Skunk = Tamato juice
Post by: eflanders on July 03, 2011, 02:47:00 AM
Post by: LITTLEBIGMAN on July 03, 2011, 08:41:00 AM
Post by: 7 Lakes on July 03, 2011, 11:47:00 AM
If you are are lost but still walking without purpose. Chances are 359 out of 360 you are going the wrong way.
Mark your spot now while you are only "a little turned around" and make a plan. Part of that plan needs to include the way back to the place where you are only "a little turned around".
Post by: Don Stokes on July 03, 2011, 12:43:00 PM
Sputterman, moss also grows on the east, west, and south side of trees. :)
Post by: Mack Marine on July 03, 2011, 03:13:00 PM
Post by: Hill Hunter on July 03, 2011, 05:31:00 PM
Patiance, i should know, I learn that lesson every year.
don't overlook the value of a cedar arrow in fire making, shave for dry tender, shaft when using a fire bow.
your boots are the best place to spend your money.
Start field dressing with the head of the animal down hill, when you get your work in the back down, then put the head up hill.
Post by: Adirondackman on July 04, 2011, 08:35:00 PM
Post by: Todd Greenwald on July 04, 2011, 08:58:00 PM
Post by: Tutanka on July 04, 2011, 09:04:00 PM
Never leave without some type of water purification, be it tablets, straws, or pumps.
If backpacking in Colorado never leave without your hunting license even if it's not hunting season, this will save you a lot of money if the search and rescue has to get you.
Post by: McDave on July 04, 2011, 09:18:00 PM
1. Mountaineer's rest step. When walking up a steep hill, don't walk in a continuous motion. Pause at the end of each step, with all of your weight on your straight rear leg while you rest your bent front leg. The pause can be as brief or long as you need.
2. Power breathing. Rather than just exhaling, puff like you're blowing out a candle. The back pressure on your lungs is the equivalent of being 1,000' lower.
3. Never get out of breath. No matter how slow you have to walk, you will go further if you never let yourself get out of breath. Maybe not as far as you wanted to go, but further than you would have otherwise.
Do all three things before you think you need to.
Post by: Doc Nock on July 04, 2011, 09:20:00 PM
It seals the moisture inside the meat, being vegetable shortening, it doesn't turn rancid in the freezer and it keeps the meat from getting the hidious brown "crust" on it.
If you've no where to age meat, quarter the meat and put inside high quality plastic trash bags (non scented of course) and place in a cooler with bags of ice.
Post by: robtattoo on July 05, 2011, 08:44:00 AM
Walmart pocket/hand warmers are worth their weight in gold. You can get a full season's worth for about ten bucks, if you buy them in summer ;) Buy 'em, carry 'em & USE 'em!
Post by: cahaba on July 05, 2011, 09:55:00 AM
Pay attention to inside corners. They are high percentage many times.
Carry flourescent flag tape. It comes in handy when trying to find the animal.
Post by: Don Stokes on July 05, 2011, 11:40:00 AM
Post by: Buckhorn47 on July 05, 2011, 11:53:00 AM
Post by: Daz on July 05, 2011, 02:26:00 PM
Post by: PaddyMac on July 05, 2011, 02:31:00 PM
Aspirin is an old fart's friend.
Don't push beyond your limits.
Consider some emergency oxygen if it's your first hunt in the Rockies or if you smoke ( :nono: )
Parachute cord is light, compact and darn handy stuff.
And remember, deer and elk make mistakes, too.
------
Buckhorn47... that reminds me of a hilarious Patrick McManus story about tying a "dead" deer on the back of his bicycle, tying its feet to the pedals and its butt on the fender and putting its front legs over his shoulders and then pedaling down the steep mountain...
Post by: Kentucky Jeff on July 05, 2011, 04:08:00 PM
2. Don't squat with your spurs on...
3. Buy the best quality binos you can afford. Spend more on your optics than you weapon! Cheap optics will strain your eyes (even though you are unconcious of this fact) and you will find you don't use them as much as you should. Sitting on the stand you should be looking through your binos at least half the time. Also buy lower power binos like 7 or 8X for eastern hunting as the 10 power binos aren't as useful in the woods and the lower power will give you better depth of field allowing you to see farther into the brush than with your plain eyes! Plus its easier to find game in the cluttered landscape of the east with the lower power optics. Use the 10X optics in the wide open spaces of the west. If you don't blink and eye at spending $500 on a bow you shouldn't think twice about spending $800 (or more)on your binos... You can't hit what you can't see!
Post by: Kentucky Jeff on July 05, 2011, 04:24:00 PM
You can have the most effective and expensive boots/socks/gloves you can buy and you will still have cold hands and feet if you fail to protect your body from massive heat lost around your torso/head--even if you don't feel cold in those zones! This is because your body will automatically shot down blood flow to your hands and feet in order to protect the temp of your vital organs (heart, lungs, brain, kidneys etc). Once your body senses massive heat loss from the head/neck/chest area you will never regain warmth in your extremities until you protect the core/vital areas and the body restores blood to the fingers/toes.
I was miserable in the winter until I discovered this simple truth and always was spending gobs of money on boots/socks/gloves trying to find comfort in the cold. Once I discovered the secret I found I could stay in 15-20 degree weather all day with some pretty average gloves/boots/socks and never feel the sting of cold in my fingers and toes. Spend your money on a good jacket and bibbs! (not pants--Bibbs!)
Post by: iron_llama on July 06, 2011, 04:21:00 PM
-Cotton kills in colder climates. Don't wear it when doing anything outside.
-I've always thought that carrying a second, or third, sharp knife is much more useful than stopping what you're doing to hone a blade. Good Mora knives can be had for cheap at any number of places.
-I always have a set of good pruning shears on my belt when scouting or hunting. Good for cutting ribcages and pelvic bones, as well as brush.
-Never step on anything you can step over, never step over anything you can step around.
-A Ziploc with a full roll of toilet paper- I use this instead of flagging tape. I hunt public land that's surveyed for logging, and there's ancient flagging tape every-damn-where. The only TP in the tree is mine, and I've got a full roll so I can flag the hell out of every drop of blood. TP is biodegradable. So are crepe paper streamers from party stores.
-Two ways to start a fire. I like the butane 'grill' lighters; I think the bulk is more than made up for by the ease of use with cold, weak, shaking hands. I also carry a magnesium firestarter on the same neck chain as my knife.
-I scout in the pre-season and build brush blinds. I also try to have a few caches (ammo cans) buried in strategic locations with an MRE, drinking water, extra tinder, Sterno cans, etc. I know someone who buys children's toboggans in the springtime and caches them in the woods for hauling out dead animals.
-FRS radio (turned off, bottom of pack) in case you need to call for help. I actually usually never take this hunting but I do take it canoeing in remote areas.
-2 flashlights that take the same batteries (AA) as my GPS- headlamp in my pack, Mini-Mag on my belt, spare batteries in my pack.
-I use blaze orange, or neon pink, nylon surveyor's twine to wrap handles of anything that I might drop. This mostly applies to knives and camo accessories.
-I cut up an old safety vest (lime green, reflective stripes) and sewed the material inside my boonie hat, and inside one of my jackets. If I get lost or injured I can put the hat and jacket on inside-out to make a SAR helo pilot's job easier. I've also seen duck boats with the bottom painted orange, for the same reason.
-When I'm snowmobiling I take extra socks and gloves (vacuum-packed), as well as a small woodburning stove (coffe can with vent holes drilled in the sides) pre-loaded with fuel, also vacuum-packed. That way if I go in the drink and need to warm up, I don't need to hunt for dry fuel. I made up a bunch of stoves once when bored, and they also work great for honey burns when bear hunting. You'll also want some sort of pot to melt snow and boil water.
-Signcutting and tracking are fungible skills. Don't funge them. If the first time you look at the ground all year is when you're trying to find blood drops, you're going to have a hell of a time recovering your animal. Go walk into the woods and follow the first set of tracks you can find, be they human or animal. See how far you can follow them. Try to pick them back up when you loose them. This will also allow you to learn how different animals move at different times of year. Practice at every opportunity and you'll amaze yourself with what you can accomplish.
Post by: NoCams on July 06, 2011, 04:48:00 PM
Post by: Pon on July 06, 2011, 05:06:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by TIM B:I just can't stop thinking about this :confused:
Hunt while your young and CAN'T afford it- cause when you can afford it, you may not be young
Post by: Turkeys Fear Me on July 06, 2011, 05:25:00 PM
Post by: BoonRoto on July 06, 2011, 05:59:00 PM
Also, breathe through your nose, your mouth is responsible for 70% of your scent.
Post by: Archie on July 06, 2011, 11:27:00 PM
Post by: Tom Leemans on July 07, 2011, 10:52:00 AM
My best friend, who is a construction engineer, lives in Florida. He was on a project on an island within the Bermuda Triangle that required him to travel 9 miles one way by boat every day. Now the boat was only about an 18 footer. Well he needed to travel either due east or due west to reach his destination each way. He got caught in a major squall at sea one afternoon on his way back "home" for the night. He was following the compass until the rain went from straight in his face, to now hitting him from the side. He panicked, thinking "I'm in the Bermuda Triangle! Is my compass even right?" He turned the boat 90 degrees to get the wind back in his face. After a few minutes following his new heading, the wind switched to his back. He turned again. This went on for what seemed like forever to him. He just got done wiping his face off again when he spotted a strip of land and headed at it as fast as he could. He was now back at the island he left before the storm hit. Looking back, the wind was obviously swirling all over the place and he should have just trusted his compass. Don't trust TV and Movies! Trust your compass!!! I've traveled as much as 17 miles in a day on foot with a topo map and a compass and always got there and back. A GPS is great, but a compass doesn't have batteries that run down. compass lessons (http://folk.uio.no/kjetikj/compass/)
Other than that, my tip is something I learned in boy scouts. ALWAYS carry a sharp knife, some cordage, and a way to make fire.
Post by: Hit-or-Miss on July 08, 2011, 09:02:00 AM
Post by: Steertalker on July 08, 2011, 09:31:00 AM
Post by: LimBender on July 08, 2011, 10:03:00 AM
Try to keep the squirrels, coons, and birds around you calm and going about their business. I can't stand a squirrel-bark-or-whimper-a-thon at primetime.
I agree on moving eyes before head. Before standing up or making any large movement, scan the area carefully.
Going with clearing trails, try to brush or touch as little vegetation as possible on the way in or out of a stand location. Your trail doesn't have to be wide or overly clean, but keeping contact with vegetation to a minimum should be a big goal.
Like someone said, be ready right when you get on stand. I've been busted good a couple times when I'm just getting in the stand and situated. A curious doe might hear something out of the ordinary and come investigate.
Post by: NoCams on July 08, 2011, 11:11:00 AM
Post by: Hard Times on July 08, 2011, 11:42:00 AM
Post by: Don Stokes on July 08, 2011, 12:09:00 PM
Post by: duncan idaho on July 08, 2011, 12:26:00 PM
Post by: Cyclic-Rivers on July 08, 2011, 12:33:00 PM
If you are hunting for peace of mind, Shoot the last animal you see for the season ;) ;)
Post by: ChuckC on July 08, 2011, 01:46:00 PM
ChuckC
Post by: TxAg on July 08, 2011, 01:53:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by ChuckC:That's pretty interesting and something I've never thought of using my bow for. Cool.
when "sneaking" thru a fall woods that is thick with dried leaves, I sometimes use the lower tip of my longbow as another foot, trying to sound like a four legged creature and not a two legged creature.
ChuckC
I've heard of something similar with guys riding bikes through the woods....something about the sound the tires make on the leaves that doesn't sounds "human" so animals stick around a little longer.
Post by: buckster on July 08, 2011, 02:31:00 PM
Post by: Rufus on July 08, 2011, 03:01:00 PM
One area I hunted once, no way before or after dark would I be caught. I don't like rattlers when I can see'um much less only when maybe I can only hear them. My 2¢
Post by: Blacktail101 on July 08, 2011, 03:14:00 PM
Post by: ESP on July 08, 2011, 03:20:00 PM
(Dads) Three steps to kill a whitetail.
-Get out of the house
-Keep the wind in your face
-Keep still
Post by: House on July 08, 2011, 04:28:00 PM
Travis
Post by: lpcjon2 on July 08, 2011, 10:32:00 PM
Post by: Jack Whitmire Jr on July 09, 2011, 08:22:00 AM
On your pull up rope tie a bowline with a big loop . Run the loop under the bow string then back over the top of the tip and you do not have to tie a know every time you pull up your bow.
When selecting a tree to hang a stand always consider wind first and other things last . BUT I try to find a tree with another close in front of me so I can draw hiddena as a deer goes behind the tree .
KME sharpeners are the best sharpening system made for double edge 2 blade broadheads. SCARY SHARP !
Post by: Jack Whitmire Jr on July 09, 2011, 08:28:00 AM
You literally are scouting 365 days a year if you hunt where you live and drive to work every day.
The neighbors keep me informed of what they are seeing also. I keep the garden raiders to a mininum for them and they are happy for me to take em out of the herd :)
Plus you can keep places to hunt by doing everyday chores for the neighbors who own land , which leads to more land to hunt :bigsmyl:
Post by: Arkansaslongbow on July 09, 2011, 11:06:00 AM
Keep ALL of your equipment simple, bows,arrows,broadheads,clothing, ect,ect
Quit watching the hunting shows on tv;
Learn to hunt public land in your own state;
And as far as woodsmanship, get a GOOD compass, learn how to use it, then (as funny as it sounds)go to the woods and get lost on purpose; NOTHING will teach you better than to get lost........ :campfire:
Post by: Don Stokes on July 09, 2011, 12:01:00 PM
Post by: lpcjon2 on July 08, 2013, 09:18:00 PM
Post by: VictoryHunter on July 08, 2013, 09:42:00 PM
Post by: Trumpkin the Dwarf on July 08, 2013, 09:54:00 PM
Next tip: Carry thick wool socks to wear instead of boots on the final leg of a stalk. They will be much quieter.
Post by: LookMomNoSights on July 09, 2013, 09:49:00 AM
Learn to make fire with a friction set.
Post by: Shakes.602 on July 09, 2013, 09:52:00 AM
Post by: Wolfshead on July 09, 2013, 10:23:00 AM
I actually was going to start a thread similar to this and then this was re-posted. It is amazing how the Creator works isn't it.
Being new to traditional bowhunting and hunting in general for that matter, this is a great teaching tool for me.
Thank you to all of you who have posted so far and thank you in advance for the info you are about to post.
Now get postin!
Post by: kstout on July 09, 2013, 10:57:00 AM
Post by: toddster on July 09, 2013, 11:14:00 AM
Shooting-practice with broadheads
Pratcie often and realistic as possible
When shot present's itself, let it happen, don't over think it.
Keep broadhead's scary sharp.
Hunting- First and foremost, take in the whole experiance, enjoy the whole thing, don't get wrapped up just into harvesting a deer.
Don't hunt tree's, hunt game! If you cann't find a good tree for stand, ground hunt.
Don't use a Tree stand without a Harness, not good to rescue a fallen buddy, been there twice.
Play the wind
If you find great sign, but seen no game, move up or down a hundred yards.
Wensel stand trick- Set up a Scout stand, then move 50 yards closer next day, then after your pattern animal, move in for the harvest.
CArry a turkey call, works to calm deer down.
Stalking on dry leaves, have a few in your hand, if deer look's in your direction, let a few drop down, will help calm the animal.
Stalking-After you stopped and looked around, stop yourself and look a few more minutes harder, how many times as you thought no game only to have a deer run off that was within 20 yards?
Pruning- Don't cut down the forest, just a few lanes, when you do, wear gloves and take the brush away 50 yards, I even put mud on the pruned limbs, do this ahead of time.
Toilet paper- use for primary purpose the marking trail.
Compass- not only for navigation, but when shoot a animal and the last spot seen take a azmith with it. When get down follow blood, if loose it go back to tree and follow azmith.
Always carry a judo point, stumping, take shot at spot where hit animal.
Safety- Already stated harness.
Carry a compass and know how to use it.
Get a QUALITY mag/ferrous bar, for emergency fire and carry it
Take a few cotton ball's, rub vasiline into them, place them into tube or duct tape, takes spark better than anything and will burn long enough to get a fire started (4-6min.)
ALWAYS carry a quality sharp knife.
Go to Google earth or another topo place, print off several paper's. Mark your stand and how to get to it with time to be back, leave one at home and TELL someone, also I leave one in my windshield of truck with location of stand (not only if something happens, but another hunter may be able to see where I am and not ruin hunt).
Wool will save your life.
Keep a canteen of water in vehicle and blanket.
MONEY- Times are tough but when and where you can afford you will come out ahead, some item's are well worth the price. Not only for enjoyment but may well put your life on them. At the top of the list is: Compass, Wool, safety harness, treestand, binoculars. When you can buy products with lifetime warranty, will pay back in spades.
There are some things never, ever compromise. Arrow's, treestand and clothing!
Post by: rraming on July 09, 2013, 11:51:00 AM
Never leave your pack on the ground, take it with you no matter what. My pack has everything I need to survive, yours should too and I never hunt without it.
The peeing form the stand thing has got me busted at least three times, one big one.
I've had some days where everything has gone wrong, forgot something, fumbled getting into stand even cut myself - some days it is safer to be out of the woods than in. Know when to pack it up for the day.
Post by: Bjorn on July 09, 2013, 12:38:00 PM
If you are working an area where you think there should be game and you are not seeing anything you may be moving too fast. Slow down to half your pace and check the wind direction again.
Post by: skychief on July 09, 2013, 04:03:00 PM
Post by: BowHunterGA on July 09, 2013, 05:56:00 PM
!["[dntthnk]"]("graemlins/dntthnk.gif" "\"\"")
Post by: Coonbait on July 09, 2013, 07:14:00 PM
Glenn
Post by: TooManyHobbies on July 09, 2013, 07:37:00 PM
- The obvious
- Clean glasses
- Mark blood trail
- Blow nose
- I've used it with a straight sapling whip as a cleaning rod, when my shotgun fell muzzle first in mud. (For all of you bowhunters that hunt with other weapons, waterfowl, etc.)
- Rip off small pieces for wind indicators.
- Dangle a few sheets at the bottom of your pull up rope, it looks enough like a deer's tail to get an animal to investigate. Either drop it or hide it as the animal gets within range.
- Dry fire starter material
- Not perfect, but use it to clean hands after dressing out your animal.
- Clean camera lens, or bino lens.
- Use as gauze for superficial wounds, cuts.
- Use as scent dispenser and range marker
Post by: Kingsnake on July 09, 2013, 08:26:00 PM
Specifically.....when nature calls and you have to drop your coveralls, make certain your sleeves and any other items you don't want . . uh . . "soiled" . . .are clear of the drop zone.
:banghead:
Kingsnake
Post by: Kingsnake on July 09, 2013, 08:27:00 PM
Post by: J.Williams on July 09, 2013, 09:29:00 PM
Post by: Knawbone on July 09, 2013, 09:40:00 PM
Post by: Bob B. on July 09, 2013, 10:42:00 PM
Bob.
Post by: buckster on July 09, 2013, 10:51:00 PM
Post by: Steve Clandinin on July 10, 2013, 12:06:00 AM
Post by: Eric Sprick on July 10, 2013, 07:35:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by buckster:Never really thought about it before untill my wife brought it up one time. So I printed out maps of the places I hunt and numbered specific locations. The night before I hunt I let her know the "number/numbers" where I plan to be and roughly how long.
Leave a "hunt plan" with a friend or loved one before each hunt. It shows them their due respect & it could save your life if the crap hits the fan!
Even though I'm not close to being in the "wilderness" the areas are over 1000 acres each. Anything can happen and wouldn't want my kids to have to deal with that.
Lots of good stuff in this thread.
Eric
Post by: firsted on July 10, 2013, 08:14:00 PM
Post by: Burnsie on July 11, 2013, 09:18:00 AM
After that trust your compass. If for some reason you don't have a compass, always have a general idea where the sun should be during times of the day, then you can walk with the sun to your back or right shoulder...etc (assuming its not overcast) There are many ways to get a general determination of direction.
Post by: johnnyk71 on July 11, 2013, 02:05:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by emac396:I've always had good luck closing one eye. I think deer are looking for predators with binocular vision. if you close one eye, and squint through the other, they seem less likely to spook, even if they're looking at you.
QuoteOriginally posted by graybarkhunter:I believe this 100% [/b]
never look a deer in the eyes...
Post by: rraming on July 11, 2013, 03:44:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by johnnyk71:Next time close them both and see what happens :biglaugh:
QuoteOriginally posted by emac396:I've always had good luck closing one eye. I think deer are looking for predators with binocular vision. if you close one eye, and squint through the other, they seem less likely to spook, even if they're looking at you. [/b]
QuoteOriginally posted by graybarkhunter:I believe this 100% [/b]
never look a deer in the eyes...
Post by: johnnyk71 on July 11, 2013, 04:10:00 PM
Post by: Pat B. on July 11, 2013, 06:06:00 PM
But if you're really serious about taking an animal, hunt as if your life depends on it !
Post by: vermonster13 on July 11, 2013, 06:07:00 PM
Post by: Tatonka777 on July 11, 2013, 06:19:00 PM
After a shooting session pull your bow with your opposite arm 5-10 times. You will get almost the same benefit as with your other arm and it will help keep your neck and back in alignment and prevent injury.
Post by: swampthing on July 11, 2013, 06:28:00 PM
Post by: Roger Norris on July 12, 2013, 07:53:00 AM
Post by: 3arrows on July 12, 2013, 10:41:00 PM
Post by: bro-n-arrow on July 13, 2013, 01:04:00 PM
Post by: katman on July 13, 2013, 09:36:00 PM
Be observant while in the woods, don't just look but see what is there, you can always learn something.
Go slow, three point rule up and down trees, especially when wet or your late.
Post by: Sam McMichael on July 14, 2013, 11:01:00 AM
2. Be still/quiet
3. snake boots!
4. Use Permanone
Post by: ChuckC on September 25, 2013, 09:24:00 AM
ChuckC
Post by: Trumpkin the Dwarf on September 25, 2013, 11:27:00 AM
Travelling ridges only makes you look like a predator. Stay in depressions or the offside of ridges and animals don't regard you as suspiciously if they see or hear you (this is more of a tip for you western hunters). You can also get away with more movement from a crouch.
Post by: tradarcher816 on September 25, 2013, 12:41:00 PM
Toilet paper ..... In a zip lock bag (soggy tp is no good)
Always say a prayer thanking The Lord for the gift of the hunt.
Patience..... Always patience
Post by: tradarcher816 on September 25, 2013, 12:43:00 PM
"Three leaves and shiny, is not for the hiney"
Post by: Mark Normand on September 25, 2013, 03:23:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Jake Diebolt:..by tying a thread or such to your top limb...
Pay attention to the wind (I'm still working on this one)
Post by: KentuckyTJ on September 25, 2013, 03:25:00 PM
Figure 8 your bow pull up rope around your thumb and pinky and it will unwind without tangling.
Post by: woodchucker on September 25, 2013, 06:54:00 PM
Anytime, Anyplace, Anyweather... With ANYTHING available!!!
It WILL, save your life!!!!!
I hunted the "Big Woods" for years. I always carried matches, a Bic lighter, and a magnezium fire starter. I've lost count of how many times they ALL got used!!!!!
Post by: frassettor on September 26, 2013, 07:46:00 AM
Post by: B2 on September 26, 2013, 08:38:00 AM
Another one I haven't seen on here yet for survival is a sewing kit. I use dental floss. You drill a tiny hole and store your sewing needle inside the dental floss box. It's a very small and compact an dental floss is incredibly strong. You can fix your pack straps, sew up your pants, make a wind indicator on your string, craft an emergency knocking point, etc.
Post by: Trumpkin the Dwarf on September 26, 2013, 10:25:00 AM
Post by: awishanew on September 26, 2013, 10:50:00 AM
Post by: awishanew on September 26, 2013, 10:54:00 AM
Post by: Stompie on September 26, 2013, 11:38:00 AM
Post by: shirikahn on September 26, 2013, 12:31:00 PM
Post by: b.glass on September 26, 2013, 01:33:00 PM
Post by: Bonebuster on September 26, 2013, 04:51:00 PM
We live in a world where what we do is dictated by the time we have. When we carry that into the woods we don`t fit in as well. There is no hurry,
As soon as we slow down amd "fit in" good things will come...it is then that you must know how to shoot.
Post by: Sam McMichael on September 26, 2013, 05:14:00 PM
Post by: Pine on September 26, 2013, 09:01:00 PM
Post by: m midd on September 26, 2013, 11:40:00 PM
Post by: Trumpkin the Dwarf on August 05, 2018, 04:30:58 PM
Tip: If you are going to ground hunt, don't get a stool with no back support. Even though they are smaller and lighter, you will never find a good tree to sit against, and you will move too much from your stiff back.
Post by: Wannabe1 on August 05, 2018, 05:28:45 PM
Post by: fujimo on August 05, 2018, 05:53:21 PM
1. before i even move after the shot, i mark where i was standing, and then i walk up and mark where the deer was standing, then i start to look for sign
2.when tracking, DONT walk right in the deers trail, walk to the side- if you lose the trail, and have to circle back- you may have done more damage to the tracks.
3. once tracking, cut and make a quick "tracking stick" it can help a lot!
4.i was always taught to never step over a log or rock, always step on it, then over. where i come from, could be snakes and other sharp critters just on the other side :laugh:
Post by: fujimo on August 05, 2018, 05:54:46 PM
1. never eat yellow snow
2. never look directly into the sun
3. never squat whilst wearing spurs
Post by: the rifleman on August 05, 2018, 08:32:56 PM
Post by: GCook on August 05, 2018, 09:12:53 PM
Yes have adequate fire starter but some water purification tablets are good to have as well.
Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk
Post by: achigan on August 05, 2018, 09:22:25 PM
Post by: Keefer on August 06, 2018, 05:26:40 AM
My question was once I found my way home to wife "Was it done on purpose" as I asked the Mrs.? :dunno:
Post by: Lakerat007 on August 06, 2018, 08:03:46 AM
Post by: fujimo on August 06, 2018, 12:25:34 PM
Post by: joel0711 on August 07, 2018, 10:27:59 AM
Post by: TealCoin on August 07, 2018, 01:47:54 PM
Post by: toddster on August 07, 2018, 01:51:04 PM
Post by: toddster on August 07, 2018, 02:09:13 PM
Post by: joebuck on August 07, 2018, 03:38:13 PM
1. When a jaybird raises Hail, stand up and start looking that direction
Post by: Keefer on August 07, 2018, 04:38:33 PM