Summer is nearly over, and the upcoming hunting seasons are right around the corner. Which means – for those who haven’t already – it’s time to get ready.
(Photo courtesy PA Game Commission)
The white-tailed deer archery season begins in less than a month – Saturday, October 1.
Following archery are the seasons for squirrels, ruffed grouse, cottontail rabbits, ring-necked pheasants and wild turkeys.
For the bow hunter, there is a lot to do to get ready and not much time to do it in.
If you have already started shooting, then you probably know how your equipment is and if it will work, but if not don’t delay. This is also a good time to check your arrows and replace the blades on your broad heads. Finding out something doesn’t work properly right before the season or on opening day can result in a missed opportunity on a big buck or filling the freezer with tasty venison.
Speaking of missed opportunities, knowing where the arrow is going when you let fly is critical. Don’t let the idea of finding time to practice become overwhelming. Letting half a dozen arrows fly every night after work is doable for most.
Don’t forget indoor shooting ranges. If the weather is bad, or you didn’t have time to get in any shooting before dark, they are a great place to go.
Unless you are hunting public land, finding places to hunt and securing permission from landowners goes hand in hand.
Deer are typically creatures of habit, and the trails they use don’t change much unless there has been some disturbance that makes them alter their route, so scouting the places where you plan to hunt is another on the must do list.
While you are scouting and possibly putting out trail cameras to see what kind of bucks are inhabiting your hunting area, it’s a good idea to take a pair of pruning shears or a saw to clear your shooting lanes. And, this is also the time to set up your tree stands or blinds.
Hopefully, you have managed to stay in reasonable shape. Pulling a compound bow does require some effort, but time spent afield requires a hunter to be in at least average shape.
If you are fortunate enough to bag a deer, getting it out of the woods can be the hardest part of the hunt.
Other gear to get ready includes having new batteries for flashlights and GPS units.
Getting your hunting knife sharp to make the chore of field dressing easier is an often forgotten chore.
Also, take a little time to go over the hunting laws and regulations. Pleading ignorance of the rules is not likely to save you a hefty fine or license revocation.
Preparation is one of the main keys to having a good hunting season. You’ll be glad you dedicated the time to getting ready.
“The Great Outdoors,” sponsored by the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors, is a weekly blog by exploreClarion.com’s Scott Shindledecker. Plan you next outdoor adventure at VisitPAGO.com or call (814) 849-5197 for more information.
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