4 Items That Should Be On Your Pre-Season Checklist

The fall hunting seasons will be here before we know it, and it’s time to get ready. There’s plenty to do between now and your upcoming hunts. Start preparing early, and be confident that you’re ready.

Don’t procrastinate when it comes to logistics, packing and practice. Spending some time getting ready now, and do less cramming before the hunt. Here are four things that should be on your summer pre-trip checklist:

1. Time in Your Boots

If you discover a hot spot, or other issue with your boots on the hunt, it probably means you didn’t do your homework. Put your boots on now and wear them often in advance of the season. Quality boots shouldn’t require much break-in. The real reason for wearing them now, is to discover hot spots or other issues that will cause problems in the field. If you do need to make a change, it’s much better to discover that now. Don’t wait until you’re in deep on a wilderness hunt.

2. Bow and Rifle Practice 

We might sound like a broken record, but this point can’t be emphasized enough. Bow and rifle practice should not wait. It’s time to go beyond sighting in your weapon. Begin training with repetition. Try and shoot as often as possible leading up to the season. Step away from the shooting bench and practice realistic positions. Most importantly, don’t forget to practice in your hunting gear. Things feel different when you’re wearing your binocular harness, a backpack, and several other layers.

3. Clothing and Equipment Check

Try on all your clothing and set up each piece of gear as if you were going hunting. If you discover problems, there’s still time to order a new piece or make changes. Where will you keep your rangefinder? Is your backpack adjusted to fit over your hunting clothes? Do you have any items from last season that should be checked to make sure they still fit? And of course it’s important to familiarize yourself with any new items.

4. Pre-Trip Packing

Seriously, go ahead and pack your bag. Even if your trip isn’t until later in the season, this is a great time to pack. Packing will help you identify missing pieces and verify that your equipment fits into the appropriate luggage for travel. If you’re hunting with us in northern British Columbia, or anywhere else that requires float plane travel, you’ll be required to stay within certain weight limits. If you discover issues or items that aren’t going to work, it’s better to deal with it now than the week of departure.

A remote hunting destination requires pre-planning and some important logistics. Having these items ready in advance of your trip will help make the whole experience more enjoyable. On your day of departure, go and have fun with extreme confidence, knowing that you are well prepared.