Some people are born hunters, while others learn the art over time. Either way, you cannot rest on your laurels. Try to improve as you go because hunting techniques change. Moreover, you can expect to face different situations in the wild, and a robust skill set keeps you one step ahead of dangers. While there isn’t a proven checklist to follow, you can improve some existing skills and add new ones over time. Here are some ways to ramp up your hunting skills before your next trip.
Master the art of alertness
Alertness matters the most when you are in the wild. It keeps you a step ahead of your game and other threats. Sharpening your intellect gives you a good start, and you can do it by solving puzzles and playing brain games. Learn to listen to your instincts and give attention to your surroundings. Recognizing every sight, smell, and sound makes you a better hunter, so make sure you practice it.
Learn survival basics
The best hunters can lose their way or get hurt outdoors. It is crucial to learn survival skills as they can be the true saviors during a crisis. Start by learning basic first aid as it can be a life-saver if you or someone else gets hurt. Navigation and communication are other capabilities that every hunter must-have. Also, know how to start a fire, use ropes and knives, and climb trees to stay safe from wild animals.
Practice shooting
This one is a no-brainer because successful hunters never go wrong with shooting. The last thing you should do is to get overconfident about your expertise. Regular practice is the only way to get close to perfection. Know your guns, optics, scopes, and accessories well enough. Learn new shooting techniques and practice from different distances and at different times of the day. You can also practice shooting with different weapons to add to your skillset.
Get your timing right
Think beyond shooting expertise, and research the animals you plan to hunt. It will enable you to understand the animal’s lifestyle. For example, deer are active at dawn and dusk, so these are the best times to follow them. You can also focus on specific areas where you are more likely to find your target. Get your timing right, and you have better chances of success with less effort.
Know how to track
Another practical skill you must add to your hunting expertise is the ability to track your prey. You have an immediate advantage with winter hunting because the ground is covered with snow. It can show you the footprints of the animal. So you need not work hard to reach the spot. But things can be tricky when you hunt during summer. You will have to look for subtle signs such as odor and broken twigs to track the animal’s whereabouts.
Developing hunting skills is a worthy effort for beginners and avid hunters alike. Keep adding them over time, and you will get better trip after trip.
