Preparing for an out of state hunt can be stressful and your preparations can be the difference between success and driving home empty handed. We've compiled a list of 8 tips that we felt are critical to improving your chances from a preparation perspective. You can also catch our discussion on these topics in episode 91 of the Whiskey & Whitetails Podcast!
- E-Scout the Location - take every opportunity you can to get information about the area you're hunting and the habitat and natural resources in the area that can help you decide on what kind of stand/blind you might need as well as what kind of clothing you might need. Also, reach out and get input from any contacts you have that might be in the area. They can often times have the best and most current data.
- Bring Gear to be Flexible - You need to be able to adjust and be flexible, especially in a location you've never hunted. Try to bring options for your hunting location such as a blind, saddle and/or climber. Pack whatever you need to be able to flex and adapt to your environment and changing conditions.
- Rules & Regulations - Make sure you know/understand the rules and regulations for the area you're traveling to. Make sure you have the appropriate tags and licenses so you don't end up going home with a ticket instead of a deer.
- Meat Transport - If you're out of state, how do you plan to get your venison meat home? Make sure you have a means for transporting meat and understand any CWD laws or regulations that may affect how you process and break down or move deer to you home state.
- Pack Layers - Bring a camo or clothing system that is modular and designed to be built upon. You're going to want quality clothing that can withstand whatever elements you put them through. Camo systems from companies like Sitka or First Lite are designed to work together as layers that are comfortable and functional.
- Eat! - Doesn't matter if you're in a camp or cabin, make sure you’re eating before you leave to hunt and bring snacks. Nothing makes a long sit worse than being hungry. Plan your meals and know what you’re cooking so there isn’t anything to think about or make decisions around. Eat and focus on hunting.
- Sleep! - Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and as much sleep as you can to optimize your energy levels for all day sits as needed or for rough weather that can take a toll on your energy.
- Stay in the Woods - Its easy to get discouraged if the action is slow but you’re out of town, away on a hunt....SO HUNT! Little sucks more than all that travel, prep and money to come home empty handed. Optimize your chances by staying in the woods.
Taking these into consideration, and assuming you've maintained your marksmanship, you'll be left with heading to the spot(s) you identified during e-scouting and reading sign and habitat to locate deer. We'll cover reading sign and habitat in a later article. Happy Hunting and stay safe!