Unless you reside in Hawaii or some other tropical paradise, the vast majority of us have put away our summer clothing, covered our pools and retired our flip-flops for the season. But before the winter blues set in, why not plan an educational day outdoors that could inspire future hunters and those anxious for hunting season to make its way around again.
Although the basic know-hows of maneuvering through the woods in search of a hunting spot may be common knowledge to the seasoned hunter, we are not always mindful that new or novice hunters still have a great deal to learn before firing that first shot or sitting in a hunting blind or stand.
Call on nearby hunters to share from their wealth of knowledge and plan a day of activities using one or more of the examples listed below.
WILDLIFE SIGNS
Find a wooded setting that encompasses an acre or 2. Make sure it is open to allow folks to walk through without difficulty. Plant various game signs (including imitation) and decoys throughout the area. Share with the class that to become a skillful hunter you must understand the habitat in which the game lives and be able to identify their presence prior to the hunt. As you guide them through the woods, allow time for participants to point out game sign that leads to decoys, if available. Use each stop as an opportunity to teach about the specific sign identified. Don’t forget to point out overlooked signs.
Examples include:
Turkey feathers
Turkey tracks (hen and gobbler)
Turkey scat (hen and gobbler)
Turkey scratching
Hen, gobbler and/or jake decoy
Buck rub or scrapes
Shed antlers
Deer tracks
Bedded doe decoy
PERSONAL PREPAREDNESS
Before braving the hunting woods, it is smart to be prepared. Learning how to navigate the unexpected can boost your confidence and help prevent a sleepless night in the hunting woods. Teach one or more of the following:
Navigation: map and compass
Basic first aid
Basic survival skills
Elevated stand safety
ATV safety
Physical conditioning
BECOMING A SAFE HUNTER
In many states, youth can complete their hunter education certification online. Many chapters still host hunter education classes, however, and there is still a great demand for the face-to-face instruction. Whether you host a sanctioned hunter ed class or teach a general hunter safety class, be sure to cover the following:
Firearm safety
Archery safety
Basic hunting skills
The hunter’s role in wildlife conservation and management
Knowing your firearm and equipment
Shot selection
Hunter’s ethics and responsibility
Hunting strategies
Field care of game
The time to prepare for the next hunting season is now. Invite individuals of all ages who are interested in learning how to hunt as well as those just starting out. Sharing the passion of our hunting tradition is sure to spark a flame that can easily turn an interest into a lifestyle. Don’t miss the opportunity!
— Teresa Carroll
