I’m finally preparing for my first big game hunt! A few questions -

[Redstar]

First off, great site, friendly people and lots of good information! I’ve been enjoying browsing around the site and sharing what I can.

So, I finally got off my butt and completed Hunters ED in February of this year. Which has given me over 7 months to anticipate my first deer season and basically just go stir crazy waiting to get out there… In that time, I’ve gotten my rifle dialed in, a few spots scouted out, gear inventoried and a couple good buddies lined up to go hunting with. I’ve also purchased my tags, I’m almost ready! But I’ve still got a few questions for the more experienced hunters. If you have a moment, please give me your suggestions.

#1 – Boots. I don’t really like the ones I have and I’ve learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I’m still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking.

#2 – Pants. It’s starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it’s annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they’d rip once I started climbing through brush.  I’m interested in getting something that won’t rip, doesn’t weight a ton, won’t soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants?

#3 – Camo? I’m not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference?

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don’t care about it while others get way into scent control. I’m thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it’s expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season?

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt?

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right?

Well, I think that about cover things. At least for today… Thanks in advance for you help!

[saylean]

wow...lots of questions.

I am NO EXPERT, so others will offer possibly better advice than I, but here goes.

1. I have a few pair of different boots. Some for summer hiking (light, minimum thermal insulation), some for fall, etc. I didnt buy these all at once, but kind of just acquired them throughout.

I like the "Irish Setters" that I have for winter. You are right, happy feet are a happy camper. Go try on some, get water proof and some with some thermal insualation in it, depending on when and where you are hunting.

2. Pants: I have camo cotton hunting pants. But we all know "cotton kills" once it gets wet. I always wear thermal underwear however that is either wool or wicks the water away. I need new pants for sure, as when they get wet, they get heavy. I would suggest spending some money on some water proof light pants than can slip over your other pants...if you have the money.

I also bought some heavier pants from cabellas (outfitters fleece with windsheer) that sure look like they will be quiet, but I have not field tested them yet.

I would like to go to a Value Village and pick up some wool pants and give that a try too. It really depends on how much rain you are expecting too. I will be deer hunting in eastern wa, so water proofing isnt a huge concern of mine.

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches (vest that covers front/back). I would suggest a blaze orange hat too. I personally have had good experience with a simple burlap camo sheet that I have cut and drape over my body like a poncho (but I dont wear it deer hunting). It breaks up my outline and really seems to work out. I also think a face mask helps out. But again, you need to decide what fits best for you. Dont worry, deer are color blind anyway, so the flame orange wont alert them to you right away.

4. Scent: I dont use any scent covers with the exception of cutting some pine branches and rubbing the pitch on me on occasion. The biggest thing for me is watching the wind. Of course, I dont kill the bruisers (deer) that alot of guys do on here, so take it for what its worth.

5. MISC: If you plan on hiking alot, get some spandex that go down to mid thigh. This will help with chaffing and is something I wish I used a long time ago. If you are not experience hiking, make sure and use a GPS or compass to mark your way, look for land marks to remember, and look behind you while you are hiking to get familiar with the terrain and how it looks.

Always be prepared to stay the night in the woods, even if it is just for a quick "day hike".

6: Field dressing deer:

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Practice by doing. The biggest thing is, you want to cool down the animal quickly and do not rupture the stomach or intestines, bladder, avoiding contamination of fecal matter on the meat.

7. Wind direction: I just use my body to check it, keeping it in mind. Or you can use the trees, leaves, grass, dirt on the ground (pick some up and drop it, seeing which way it goes).

Good luck and I hope this helps.

Saylean!~

[luvtohnt]

#1 – Boots. I don't really like the ones I have and Ive learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I'm still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking. This is very much correct. I would however go differentfeent sporting goods store and try to find boots with built in waterproofing, like gortex liners.

#2 – Pants. It's starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it's annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they'd rip once I started climbing through brush.  I'm interested in getting something that won't rip, doesn't weight a ton, won't soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants? Wool is always good, keeps you warm even if you are wet. Sitka gear seems to be very popular, althought to expensive for my taste. I have found lately that synthetic fibers are the way to go. The hold water out longer and when they do get soaked they dry much faster. Also very important is layering, make sure you have layers so you can add and subtract clothes as you hike or tepurature varies.

#3 – Camo? I'm not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference? Camo helps conceal your outline, which is what animals can pick up on the quickest. Make sure the pattern you buy matches the surrounding flora and fauna or else it won't work. You do have to wear orange but only 400 square inches. I am not sure but Slider sells a vest that may meet this requirement plus they have a built in bino system. Something to look into.

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don't care about it while others get way into scent control. I'm thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it's expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season? Personally I use unsented deodorant and usually use some sort of cover scent. I am not sure it is neccesary for rifle hunters, but the closer you have to be or want to be to the animal the more important it becomes. I don't beleive much in scent killers as the second you sweat you are producing more scent. It is much easier to mask your scent than try to eradicate it. Deer pee only if hunting the rut which general season you are not. Hunting clothes should be kept in a seperate location than others and don't use a fabric softner sheet when you dry. Also try to pick up some soap that is scentfree, or even soap specifically designed for hunting clothing.

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt? Better binoculars, and a really sharp knife.

#6 – The “now what question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I've never cleaned/skinned a deer… I've read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful. Not sure of a source, my first animal I just called my dad and he walked me through it over the phone worked out great. when I got home he could tell everything I did wrong just by looking at it. He was a butcher for 15 years though so that is an unfair advantage.

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right? I use the primos wind checker. The white scentless powder is more visable for a longer distance then dirt. Besides if the dirt is wet it won't drift in the wind unless it is violent. Plus dirt will pick up scent from your hand and then drift towards animal possibly. Threaad is the same wy it will absorb scent from the truck, the gun case, your hands when you tie it on, so on.

These of course are all my personal opinion that I came to upon trying many differnt things. So as you hunt more you may adjust these to your own liking but at least it gives you a place to start. Something I never had because my dad was handicapped before he ever got to take me out to teach me. So let the learning begin.

Brandon

[boneaddict]

#1 – Boots.  You are on the right track and boots is one of the most import pieces of gear so glad you put it on top.  Rates right up there with tires on the truck.  Lots of brands, lots of opinions.  I like Meindels.  You can get them from Cabelas.  They aren't cheap but you really don't want to scrimp on boots.  Danners, Kenetreks, whites, all brnads that have quality boots.
 
#2 – Pants.
If its snow and rain, wool pants will keep you out there.  It still beats all the synthetic, I don't care what people say.  Moth cloth works good.

#3 – Camo? Killed a lot of deer in a black and red plaid shirt or coat and in blue jeans.

#4 – Scent.  Stay downwind and save your money.  Put it towards your boots or next years tags.

#5 – Misc?  A sharp knife and a wetstone.  It actually amazes me how many folks I have had or bumped into or have heard of that didn't have a knife in their pocket while in th efiled.  I would throw a lighter in your pocket too.  You never know.  That and a small flashlite.  You need to be out there until last light if you are aserious hunter and a good light is always good security about getting home.
 
#6 – Ask about butchering once you get it done.  Study up on field dressing.  The rest can and will come naturally.   Try to make a clean shot.

#7 – talc is fine, fir needles work great. 

Feel free to ask more questions.  We never or better not ever fault you for asking now.  We will make fun of you later if you don't. LOL

[HUNT]

#1 – Boots. I don’t really like the ones I have and I’ve learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I’m still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking.  Get waterproof boots that fit.  You may have to try on many different pair before you get the perfect fit.  Also go with the merino wool socks.  Since I switched to them I have never had blisters from a pair of well fitting boots.

#2 – Pants. It’s starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it’s annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they’d rip once I started climbing through brush.  I’m interested in getting something that won’t rip, doesn’t weight a ton, won’t soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants?  Wool pants work great.  I also have some waterproof camo pants, but they were expensive.  Wool is the best bet for the money.  Only drawback is that they are heavy. 

#3 – Camo? I’m not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference?Camo breaks up your outline.  Even if you are wearing Orange.  Not a necessity but I think it helps.

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don’t care about it while others get way into scent control. I’m thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it’s expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season? I don't use the scents when rifle hunting. 

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt?  Good Binocs.  You will use them more than any other item you have. 

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.Just follow the things you've read on this site and you will be fine.  Just get the insides on the outside and keep it clean! 

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right?  You should keep the wind direction in mind.  Especially when stalking an animal.  They can smell from a lot farther than you think. 

Well, I think that about cover things. At least for today… Thanks in advance for you help!

[croix]

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.

There are some pictures here

http://www.learn-taxidermy.com/deer_gut.htm

This one has some pictures AND some recipes - mmmmm

http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf

This site has videos for gutting and skinning

http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-gut-a-deer-field-dressing-265250/

YouTube has some videos as well. Just search "how to gut a deer" from google and you will find plenty.

Good luck

[DOUBLELUNG]

Besides rifle, ammo and tag, I recommend:

1.  a good day pack.  I love my Badlands 2200. 

2.  The best binoculars you can afford.

3.  Sharp knife and sharpener.

4.  Fire starter, and a lighter.  I make mine by stuffing about 2" of dryer lint into the bottom of a quart freezer bag, and soaking it with paraffin.

5.  Map and compass, and the knowledge to use it.  A GPS is good too, but can be limited by dense forest cover.

6.  LED Headlamp.

7.  Camelbak-type hydration bladder.

8.  Comfortable Gore-tex boots with modest amount of insulation.

9.  An extra pair of socks.

10.  Calories - granola bars, gorp, single serve wrapped cured meats and cheese, dried fruit.

11.  parachute cord.

12.  A written description of where you'll be and when you expect to return, left with someone who cares.  Verbal coordination if hunting with others.

13.  A roll of flagging tape.

[Redstar]

Thanks for the help!


This is the only suggestion I'm unclear on so far:

13.  A roll of flagging tape

Is this to mark where you've walked?

[Little Dave]

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches.

... 400 cubic inches is about a half dozen medium-sized oranges. 

I would say your best bet is to get out there now before you hunt and see for yourself.  Best way to get a deer is to have them patterned really well before the season starts.  I've seen a number of success pictures here that don't involve a lot of expensive brand new gear.  One of my favorites I think is BTKR? loading up a deer in the trunk of his car.

I'd say focus on the hunt more and accumulate top of the line gear over time.  Plus, its getting kind of late now to break in new boots unless you plan to walk several miles a day in the boots between now and then.  Mind the wind and the noise.  A cheap knife will go dull really fast. 

Good luck and have fun.

[saylean]

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches.

... 400 cubic inches is about a half dozen medium-sized oranges. 

thats why i gave an example...

smart arse..hey! I work in video games, not construction...

[boneaddict]

Flagging tape is helpful when you are all hyped up, and you will be and you  tear off th emountiain to go get your buddies to help you pack.  then you don't have a clue where you shot your deer because in your hype you forgot to pay attention.

[mossback91]

Flagging tape is helpful when you are all hyped up, and you will be and you  tear off th emountiain to go get your buddies to help you pack.  then you don't have a clue where you shot your deer because in your hype you forgot to pay attention.

Also helps in the thick chit if you think your gonna get lost

[JackOfAllTrades]

Sent you a Pm, but now after I've read these responses, I think I'll throw in 'The Ten Essentials' for a hiker as an answer to #5.  

Map & Compass- (A GPS receiver is not a replacement for a compass)  -And know how to use them!

Sunglasses and sunscreen- (OK, not so much needed on the wet side), but throw in medications you need. Allergies will play hell on a hunt. A headache because you're looking so hard for that elusive buck will turn a morning to miserable. I keep some Tylenol and Ibuprophen on me.

Extra food and water- You need to replace the energy you burn when hiking. Nuf said...  

Extra clothes- Clothing in layers. Clothing for the environment and weather expected, and unexpected. Correct head gear.

Headlamp/flashlight- I carry two. One for the head that is in my day/fanny pack, one that is a survival light that stays in my pants pocket.

First aid kit- No, not all the ointment stuff. But something that can be used to cover a wound or cut in emergency. The bandana I keep in my pocket to wipe my glasses could be a pretty good bandage. I keep some medical tape in my bag and a couple bandaids in my wallet. I don't take my whole wallet hunting. My hunting wallet contains my tags, DL, Medical card, debit card, concealed carry permit, and a little cash.

Fire starter- Nuff said.  Know how to use it. You'd surprised at how many people can't start a fire on the wet side..

Knife- I carry two. Swiss Army knife in my pocket and a sheath knife on my belt. (sharp enough to shave with. dull knives are dangerous)

Signal device- No, your gun is not a signal device. It is limited by the amount of ammo you're carrying and is not precise when signaling. Whistle, mirror and or pen flare. I've seen the plastic whistles break apart at the mold seam so I prefer to have the old style metal one burried in my bag. Oh.. Uh that flashlight fits the bill. Extra batteries. The pen flare is a high end option and also not useful everywhere. I'll throw in the cell phone here.. Turned off, protected in my bag.

Emergency shelter. Even a cheep thin tarp works. Otherwise the space blanket can save your life. I carry the space bag. They are harder to find in stores.

I set these items up for my teenage boys as they started hunting. Anything can happen out in the woods. It's the unprepared that become the fatal news story. Those that are prepared seldom make the news.

-Edit to ad... Toilet paper and some baby wipes in a separate baggie.

-Steve

[Little Dave]

13.  A roll of flagging tape
Is this to mark where you've walked?

Yeah, toilet paper can be a good substitue for marking the blood trail.  Neat thing is that if you don't have presence of mind to remove your flagging tape and roll out the TP instead, nobody is going to know about it a few weeks later.

In a pinch, it has other uses too.

[mossback91]

Besides rifle, ammo and tag, I recommend:



12.  A written description of where you'll be and when you expect to return, left with someone who cares.  Verbal coordination if hunting with others.

Thats a GOOD one to do..........I seem to forget to do this alot