A group hunt can be an exciting and rewarding adventure; however, hunting alone can be one of the great escapes from the real world.
Solo hunting allows you to have complete flexibility in terms of the “wheres,” “whens,” and “hows” of your trip since you don’t have to make any compromises to your plan with anyone else. However, solo hunting can be incredibly dangerous, depending on the surrounding terrain and local predators. Being safe during any hunt should be the number one priority, but it becomes much more serious, even the difference between life and death during a solo hunt.
We do not suggest hunting without a companion, but understand many people choose to do it. So, today, we’re sharing seven tips to ensure a safe and successful solo hunt. Continue reading to find out more.
- Get and Stay in Shape Physically — One of your best assets during a solo hunt is your own physical strength. Before the hunting season begins, make sure to stay (or get) in good shape. Take time to go on long walks or hikes every day during the off-season to maintain your stamina and build muscle by incorporating resistance training.
- Share Your Plan — Before you head out, make sure to plan your route and share your plan. This is important during a group hunt but is essential when hunting alone. Always communicate your plan and route to family members and friends that are not joining your adventure so they can inform and alert authorities if necessary. Even if you’re uncertain of your exact plan, an approximate plan will give officials a good place to start if you go missing.
- Take a Satellite Phone — Despite today’s widespread phone coverage, cell service can be spotty in hunting areas. Bring along a fully charged satellite phone in a waterproof bag to stay in touch and reachable. In the event your regular cellphone is out of service or dies, you’ve got a phone with universal coverage. Additionally, you can let people at home know if your plan or route changes or becomes delayed.
- Pack for the Weather — Before your hunt, make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly. Pack clothes that you can layer and stay comfortable regardless of what weather Mother Nature has in store.
- Pack Emergency Necessities — It may be tempting to pack lightly for your hunt; however, it is important to bring every emergency essential. Make sure to bring a complete first aid kit, enough food and water for your entire trip plus a few days extra, water purification tablets, survival blankets, and any other emergency supplies you might need.
- Protect Against Local Predators — Knowing the local predators and how to protect yourself from them is critical. Make sure to clean up and properly store food after meals. Bring bear spray and make sure to be extra cautious around water sources and during mating season.
- Avoid Treacherous Terrain — Avoid risky areas and terrain, such as high, rushing rivers and rocky gorges. If you injure yourself crossing through these areas, no one will be able to get help.
Contact R & K Hunting Company
If hunting alone isn’t your thing, contact the hunting professionals at R & K Hunting Company. Our expert guides will give you a once in a lifetime Rocky Mountain hunting adventure in Utah or Wyoming. Book your next hunt today.