Hunting
camping is an activity that is gaining popularity. Centuries ago,
hunters often had no choice but to camp out until they were able
to bring food home for their families. Nowadays, people enjoy
hunting camping because it gives them a chance to feel independent
and enjoy the outdoors.
There are many different types
of hunting, but all have two very important things in common:
the need for safety and ethical hunting practices.
The first step you should take
is plan a safe hunting camping trip. Never venture out on your
own. Along with the rest of your group, you must map out your
trip in advance and tell your family or a trusted friend know
about your plans. If you are late returning, they will be able
to tell authorities where you might be so they know where to search
for you. Once you set out on your trip, stick to your plan! Use
a compass and landmarks to follow the path you plan to travel.
Choose your hunting party carefully.
You will rely on each other during the trip. At least one of your
companions should be an experienced hunter and camper. Plan your
supplies and equipment list together to make sure you remember
all camping supplies, and so you leave unnecessary items at home.
Depending on the game you are
hunting, you may be hiking, canoeing or driving an ATV. Obey trail
and road rules. Check the weather before you go, then plan and
pack as needed. Never plan to hunt in an unknown area; it is important
to know the terrain and whether other hunters will be in the region.
With your hunting partners, make a plan in case of an emergency.
At least two hunters should have first aid training and carry
first aid kits.
Each member of your hunting party
should take a hunting safety course before setting out. This will
teach you basic survival skills, gun safety and ethical hunting
practices. Bring enough food with you to last throughout the trip
if the hunt is unsuccessful. Pack plenty of drinking and cooking
water. Remember as you pack that if the hunt is a success, you
will be going back home with more than you came with; leave enough
room to bring home your catch.
Read and understand the hunting
laws in the state you are visiting. Get the necessary permits
and licenses well in advance. Respect bag limits and tagging guidelines.
You must be familiar with your gun or bow before you go. Bring
extra ammunition and learn about the type of shell or bullet you
should use to bring down the different types of game you might
encounter. Unload your gun during transport and in camp. Know
how the safety operates, as well as how to clean and store your
gun.
In addition to your regular camping
supplies, you will need a sharp skinning or boning knife; rope
to hang your animal; a torch to singe hairs; salt if you plan
to preserve the hide; a cooler to store the meat if you butcher
it at the kill site; and several plastic bags for storing bloody
clothing.
One of the most memorable parts
of hunting camping is the camaraderie and companionship in camp.
Too often, hunters enjoy their time in camp with a few too many
alcoholic beverages. Drinking during a hunting trip is irresponsible
and leads to tragic accidents each and every year. The risk of
an accidental shooting is greatly increased when one or more of
the hunting party is drinking. It can also contribute to dehydration
or hypothermia, which can both be fatal. When you and your friends
are far from medical help, you need to avoid potentially dangerous
situations such as those caused by drinking.
Keep your camp clean and hang
your food packs in a tree or on a bear pole at least ten feet
from the ground to keep animals away from your site. Have extra
dry clothes and boots in your camp in case of rain or snow.
Use walkie-talkies to communicate
with your hunting partners. Blaze-orange clothing is mandatory
to increase your visibility to other hunters. You should know
each person’s exact location at all times. Never walk towards
another hunter without announcing your presence. As you move around
the area, unload your gun and keep the action open. When your
gun is loaded, have the safety on and point your muzzle in a safe
direction. The Golden Rule is: Never point your gun at anything
you don’t intend to shoot! Always be watchful.
Hunting is exciting but carries with it responsibilities. Don’t
use practices such as jacklighting to trap your prey. Before taking
a shot, judge the distance between yourself and the animal. Is
your ammunition powerful enough to kill the animal at this distance?
Head, heart or lung shots are ideal; if you are going to have
to shoot it in the back, behind or legs, wait for a better shot.
Look into the distance behind the animal for a clear path if you
miss your shot.
You must track and kill an injured animal. It’s cruel and
unethical to allow an animal to escape bleeding to eventually
die in the wilderness. Always tag a downed animal with brightly
colored material during field dressing or transport. Never dress
the animal near your camp, or hang the animal near the entrails,
in case there are bears in the area.
With preparation and good
hunting partners, your hunting camping trip is sure to be a success!
Contributed By Miranda
Miller
