Post by: shanevg on April 22, 2008, 01:30:58 PM
Post by: coastalghost on April 22, 2008, 01:32:56 PM
Post by: bowpredator on April 22, 2008, 04:32:07 PM
Rodger
Post by: bowhunterty on April 22, 2008, 06:01:01 PM
Post by: actionshooter on April 22, 2008, 06:20:05 PM
Check out the book by Cameron Hanes "Back Country Bowhunting A guid to the Wild Side" He breaks it all down for you. It saves you the money and time of tring to find the right gear for this type of hunting. It is avaliable at Sportsmans Warehouse for around $25.
Rodger
+1 its a good book, I picked up some useful info
Post by: shanevg on April 22, 2008, 06:58:50 PM
Check out the book by Cameron Hanes "Back Country Bowhunting A guid to the Wild Side" He breaks it all down for you. It saves you the money and time of tring to find the right gear for this type of hunting. It is avaliable at Sportsmans Warehouse for around $25.
Rodger
+1 its a good book, I picked up some useful info
Well does anyone have a copy they are trying to get rid of?
Post by: Vek on April 28, 2008, 01:55:16 PM
I cannot take a load like that uphill for long, so would have to halve it and take two trips. I hunt with a pretty big pack (6500 ci), and was able to get everything inside except horns and sleeping pad. Your pack might be uncomfortable or unusable at that weight, and that's fine - just make more trips and move more quickly. You're probably better off in the long run that way!
Be aware that there are some big-bodied deer up there. My meat load this year was 100 pounds, no bones.
If you're serious about that kind of hunt, you will bring just enough gear to survive any kind of weather - comfort in cold rain or wet snow requires too much heavy clothing. Also, you will be willing to compromise somewhat on shelter - I use a tarp and camp in the trees. And, do some food research, figure out how many calories you need, and put a diet plan together that minimizes weight. There are substantially more folks interested in ultralightweight backpacking than in backcountry hunting, so much of your research on food/shelter/clothing can be done on other-than-hunting websites.
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 02:07:15 PM
Post by: Snowman on April 28, 2008, 02:24:56 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 02:56:31 PM
I've only shot two animals (one deer and a bear.) The deer was a small spike and probably weighted 110 pounds total, so we just drug it out. The bear was a bit bigger, but only about a 1/4 mile from the car. I packed out one quarter and the hide (with the skull still attached) with my Badlands 2200 and it was very difficult to walk with it. I then had a fiberglass pack frame in my car (we didn't plan on shooting the bear 5 minutes into the hike) and packing the rest of it out was a cinch.
So I don't really know what to expect to be sure. I would definitely take my bigger REI pack for this trip (3800 or 4500 CI, not sure which one.) But I don't know how easy it will be to pack my camp and a deer out with that. I was thinking about strapping my dad's fiberglass pack frame to my pack and then piggy backing it. Walk out a mile then go back for the other pack. But that's a lot of hiking when we expect to be more than 10 miles in. Does anyone have any suggestions on a good (large) pack for these situations?
So far, I think my best option is taking a non-hunter with me. The guys that told me about the place I'm planning to go said they never went in without two packers for each deer. They also only went in 3 times before they gave up because it was too much work. I am definitely planning on trying this year, hopefully I can have some success.
Post by: bowhuntin on April 28, 2008, 03:10:02 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 03:18:07 PM
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 03:20:43 PM
Post by: bowhuntin on April 28, 2008, 04:04:11 PM
LOL, yeah, that might be an option if I wasn't surviving on college loans and saving all my spare change until after I get married this December. I figure, if I'm in college, I should be able to handle a long, tough pack in and out. Plus, it's all part of the experience, right?
You're right it is all part of the experience, it is tough being broke while in college, I usually make enough money during the summer though if I wanted to hire an outfitter to pack me in and out I think I could afford it. That is why I threw that option out there, didn't know your financial situation, just trying to cover all the options to a back country trip.
Post by: actionshooter on April 28, 2008, 04:14:50 PM
LOL, yeah, that might be an option if I wasn't surviving on college loans and saving all my spare change until after I get married this December. I figure, if I'm in college, I should be able to handle a long, tough pack in and out. Plus, it's all part of the experience, right?You have a good attitude, get your gear together and start packing now to get in shape. Life will be a lot easier when your coming out with meat and your camp,knees hurting, calling yourself a *censored*, swearing you will never do it again. Then start making plans for the next backpack hunt about a week later :chuckle:
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 08:57:02 PM
You have a good attitude, get your gear together and start packing now to get in shape. Life will be a lot easier when your coming out with meat and your camp,knees hurting, calling yourself a *censored*, swearing you will never do it again. Then start making plans for the next backpack hunt about a week later :chuckle:
Well, I'm not too worried about the be in shape part, but can't wait for the rest of it!
Post by: Hunting Cowboy on April 28, 2008, 09:03:03 PM
Well, I'm not too worried about the be in shape part, but can't wait for the rest of it!
Ah, to be 20 again ;)
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 09:08:05 PM
I would really suggest you spend the $20 bucks and get that book. I found it very interesting some of the things Cameron struggles with when on these hunts, are things I had to overcome myself. If you are aware of them, then maybe it would be easier for you. You won't quite grasp it until you do it once on your own, but the mental part is just as tough as the physical part. Tyr not to laugh at ole boneaddict. When you have just busted your guts out and you have arrived at heaven, the loniness creaps in. You lay under your tarp and the first snowstorm of the year hits and the snags are hitting the ground and the wind is howling and the fire is low, and all you can think about is that sweet thing back home. Trust me.......its corny sounding but real. Then you walk through the door and that nagging voice says What are you doing home so early. Then your pissed and want to hike back up there.
Post by: coastalghost on April 28, 2008, 09:09:53 PM
You have a good attitude, get your gear together and start packing now to get in shape. Life will be a lot easier when your coming out with meat and your camp,knees hurting, calling yourself a *censored*, swearing you will never do it again. Then start making plans for the next backpack hunt about a week later :chuckle:
Well, I'm not too worried about the be in shape part, but can't wait for the rest of it!
:chuckle: Oh the beautiful pain...I would rather pack a hundred + pounds uphill than down anyday.
Post by: actionshooter on April 28, 2008, 09:28:11 PM
I was going to say something......
I would really suggest you spend the $20 bucks and get that book. I found it very interesting some of the things Cameron struggles with when on these hunts, are things I had to overcome myself. If you are aware of them, then maybe it would be easier for you. You won't quite grasp it until you do it once on your own, but the mental part is just as tough as the physical part. Tyr not to laugh at ole boneaddict. When you have just busted your guts out and you have arrived at heaven, the loniness creaps in. You lay under your tarp and the first snowstorm of the year hits and the snags are hitting the ground and the wind is howling and the fire is low, and all you can think about is that sweet thing back home. Trust me.......its corny sounding but real. Then you walk through the door and that nagging voice says What are you doing home so early. Then your pissed and want to hike back up there.
I won't laugh for one second, the mental part is what gets me for sure. Thats the hardest part, set up camp, eat dinner and then the silence. I miss the wife and kids.
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 09:34:09 PM
Post by: archery288 on April 28, 2008, 09:40:20 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 09:44:04 PM
Ah, to be 20 again ;)
Ain't it the truth! :)
I was going to say something......
I would really suggest you spend the $20 bucks and get that book. I found it very interesting some of the things Cameron struggles with when on these hunts, are things I had to overcome myself. If you are aware of them, then maybe it would be easier for you. You won't quite grasp it until you do it once on your own, but the mental part is just as tough as the physical part. Tyr not to laugh at ole boneaddict. When you have just busted your guts out and you have arrived at heaven, the loniness creaps in. You lay under your tarp and the first snowstorm of the year hits and the snags are hitting the ground and the wind is howling and the fire is low, and all you can think about is that sweet thing back home. Trust me.......its corny sounding but real. Then you walk through the door and that nagging voice says What are you doing home so early. Then your pissed and want to hike back up there.
Yeah, I definitely plan on buying Backcountry Bowhunting before I head out. Also (luckily) I won't be alone. I've finally convinced my future father-in-law to get out his old rifle and come along. He would only agree to it if it was an "epic adventure." Then to help pack, his wife and my fiance want to tag along. I don't think they know what they are getting into, but the would never pass up a long, hard backpacking trip. That's why I love the family I'm marrying in to! We may even convince one more person to come along to help pack out, so that should be helpful to say the least.
Post by: actionshooter on April 28, 2008, 09:46:07 PM
Post by: archery288 on April 28, 2008, 09:46:32 PM
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 09:49:11 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 09:52:33 PM
Well, if nothing else, a family trip like that would be awesome. I'll be honest with you its a good chance that might screw up your chances for a big one alot of times that doesn't matter. The hunt is alot of what this is all about. Family time can't be beat. You guys know I solo it alot. Its not for alot of folks.
I'm sure I will try solo someday. But as far as chances to get a big one, I don't even care. I would love to shoot a big one, but I really just want to get a semi-decent buck. Like I've said before, all I have ever shot is a pencil-sized spike. Just shooting a 4 point would thrill me. We'll see, I'm going to scout it out in July or August and then we're going to decide how to hunt it from there.
Post by: boneaddict on April 28, 2008, 09:55:25 PM
One, you are researching...
Two you are coming up with a plan
Three you are involving family
Four and most importantly. You are dreaming and thinking about it constantly, and thats the fun part.
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 10:01:27 PM
You're already doing the right thing in more ways than one.
One, you are researching...
Two you are coming up with a plan
Three you are involving family
Four and most importantly. You are dreaming and thinking about it constantly, and thats the fun part.
Yes to all of those (especially the last part.) I wish you all could have seen the bucks my brother and I shot in my dream the other day! :P
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 11:23:12 PM
Post by: MountainWalk on April 28, 2008, 11:26:09 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 28, 2008, 11:37:16 PM
Post by: ICEMAN on April 29, 2008, 05:19:42 AM
Bone, on the "lonely's", I find the "guilt" gets to me when soloing or just getting out for a couple of days. I miss the wife and kids and all, but I really start feeling guilty for taking the time for myself when there are always so many things to still take care of at home. Cell phone technology, {when I can get a signal (seldom)} has really helped me deal with both. And, when I have bailed and arrived home early, I get a funny look, like "WTF ,I thought you were going to be out for four days.....?" About that time I really feel like a *censored*...crap...I should have stayed in the hills.... :(
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 06:05:05 AM
My problem Ice is the wife is usually crankier than hell and playing mind games right before I go, laying on the guilt and everything else. Then we usually get in a big fight and I go. Then I am dwelling on it the whole time, and I think how selfish I am, and then I am in a hurry to get back home. Here is an example, at 1:30 in the afternoon, I was working until 2, she called me at work and told me she was leaving me. I was taking my Dad moose hunting in Idaho at 4 in the morning the next day. My Dad was already on his way. That one was fun. Mind games, I hate them. I worried about the animals and the kids and everything else. Got home and everything was fine. Bi-polar is a fun one. She pulled the same stunt on my Alaskan trip and I said don't let the door hit you in the ass, and I went hunting. Of course it still weighed on me. Thats why you guys with supportive spouses, should be VERY thankful.
Post by: ICEMAN on April 29, 2008, 06:13:06 AM
Besides, if you aint happy, nobody happy.....
I most often take care of everything prior to a big trip, lots of prep....feel that I have earned the trip...
Post by: Ridgerunner on April 29, 2008, 06:39:28 AM
Buy the book now, your scouting trip is only a couple of months away. As for myself I think I'm off to go workout and get in shape for my ironman high hunt this year, lol.
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 08:56:01 AM
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 09:00:56 AM
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 09:09:46 AM
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 09:12:09 AM
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 09:13:07 AM
Post by: archery288 on April 29, 2008, 09:15:46 AM
Post by: shanevg on April 29, 2008, 09:16:28 AM
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 09:53:36 AM
Post by: actionshooter on April 29, 2008, 01:42:57 PM
The book actually has little to do with archery overall. I would recomend it for any hunter. I think its time for me to re-read it again also.
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 01:50:25 PM
I hear y'all one on difficulties of solo adventures. Shoot even with others around the size of the space will get to me. If I'm out hunting or fishing alone, its tough to man up for me and make it through my whole excursion. I've had times where I've cut it short even in a group, mostly when I don't know the others well, but still. Quite a juxtaposition to be out doing what you love and still feel down and blue.
Post by: Vek on April 29, 2008, 02:30:03 PM
I lucked out big-time spouse-wise. She's happy for me to go, and prays for success so I can get home early.
Enough psychology, though. Embrace simple, lightweight shelters (TARPS). Embrace simple, lightweight, easy-prep homecooked foods (google "logan bread" and "freezer bag cooking", look on the kifaru site for lightweight food recipes, search for a discussion thread on logan bread on 24hourcampfire). Buy a sub-3lb sleeping bag that has a draft collar and is good for 20F. Determine whether you can get away with just a ridgerest pad, or need an inflatable, and remember how much weight you saved by sleeping under a tarp. Ridgerest alone saves you another pound over a thermarest. Get rid of anything reflective on your clothes. Don't wear blue, black, or white (in general - exceptions made for snow).
Buy a good pack with muted colors - one that can carry at least 70 pounds comfortably. I doubt you can get a two-trip muley hunt done with a pack smaller than 4000 cubic inches. I hunt with my big pack on at all times - you bowhunting types may have to think that one over, as there's some noise considerations to make. Internal/external frame DOES NOT MATTER, unless you're packing moose. Go to REI and other mountain gear stores and test drive all of their packs with all of their weighted beanbags inside, and freak them out by asking what kind of beanbag they have that's the approximate density of warm meat.
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 03:03:31 PM
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 03:36:12 PM
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 03:44:21 PM
Post by: EMPyre on April 29, 2008, 03:53:06 PM
Any other great boots? I've got flat feet, and I think my heal sticks back farther than average, thus the constant wear there.
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 03:57:14 PM
Post by: Hunting Cowboy on April 29, 2008, 05:16:13 PM
Embrace simple, lightweight shelters (TARPS). Embrace simple, lightweight, easy-prep homecooked foods (google "logan bread" and "freezer bag cooking", look on the kifaru site for lightweight food recipes, search for a discussion thread on logan bread on 24hourcampfire). Buy a sub-3lb sleeping bag that has a draft collar and is good for 20F. Determine whether you can get away with just a ridgerest pad, or need an inflatable, and remember how much weight you saved by sleeping under a tarp. Ridgerest alone saves you another pound over a thermarest. Get rid of anything reflective on your clothes. Don't wear blue, black, or white (in general - exceptions made for snow).
In 06 we were packed into an area for the September high hunt and ran into two forest service guys who were hiking out one evening just after dark. They were some hearty fellows. Both carried their own tarp for shelter. That's it, a tarp! They had lightweight sleeping bags and nothing but the bare essentials, Nothing. They had been out for two weeks clearing trails. One carried a peavy pole and an axe the other a whip style crosscut saw and a small axe. It was raining and both were hiking in their rain gear. They stopped by the wall tent and we offered them some homemade brownies and some left over chicken wings and legs we had packed in. They thought they'd died and gone to heaven. Both had lost weight during their two week stint. My point is it comes down to how comfortable is necessary and what are you willing to do without. In 2004 we back packed into the back country for the high hunt and I can tell you that our camp was not nearly as comfortable as it is when horses and mules are carrying the load. I have the utmost respect for those hearty soles who are willing and able to "rough it." and earn their stripes! Both types of hunts can be rewarding and great memories.
Here are the two Forest service guys that shared some brownies and chicken with us. I admire guys like this! In my way of thinking, guys like these forrest service men along with Vek and a few others are a rare breed.
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 05:19:27 PM
Post by: actionshooter on April 29, 2008, 05:31:01 PM
Post by: Wea300mag on April 29, 2008, 05:37:38 PM
Post by: ICEMAN on April 29, 2008, 06:06:02 PM
Logan Bread
Combine and stir well:
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups unbleached white flour
1 1/4 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup powdered milk
2/3 cup nuts
1 cup raisins
In another bowl, stir well:
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup molasses
3 eggs
1 cup margarine
1/2 cup oil
Add sugar mixture to flour mixture, stirring thoroughly. Pour into two 9-by-9-inch greased cake pans and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until done. Let bread cool; slice; and store in the refrigerator or freezer. Makes 36 bars. (Recipe from Good Food for Camp and Trail.)
Post by: Huckleberry on April 29, 2008, 06:15:51 PM
1) Instead of a large tarp sew tyvek into a bag big enough to hold your sleeping bag. This then becomes waterprof, somewhat wind prof and you can sleep in the mud or grass if you need to, on nice nice all you need is a bug net, on crappy ones a small 4x4 piece of tarp of visqueen is big enough to cover your upper body.
2) If you want a sleeping bag that is really light but adds some protection against cold you can remove half the stuffing this is usually cheaper than buying an expensive ultralight.
3) Use 2 or 3 cheap containers of bottled water. They hold up well and are lighter than Nalgene bottles.
4) Eat well. Portion control doesn't matter. If the package says serves 2 IT DOESN'T.
As far as footwear went they wore thorlos which worked well but still got blisters. I used to get them before my current job but now that I spend so much time on my feet I only get them if I pack a lot of weight. That's pretty hard to avoid I think. I always wear two pairs of socks even if it's hot because it helps reduce friction I think. I always carry the 10 essentials (thanks boy scouts) but try hard to phase out bulk and weight. I work alone so hunting alone doesn't bother me but nights can get lonely. With lcd lights that last forever a small paperback book isn't a bad idea. Gives you something to do when it gets dark at 6:00 and your exhausted but not ready for bed. Also, buy a good compass and learn to use it. Some mornings you wake up and the cloud cover is so low you can't get a good bearing. A GPS might work in a lot of areas but never rely on it. After a trip or two the packing becomes second nature you'll have too much your first time and trim it down from there. Just remember that help isn't going to be around the next corner be a little extra careful in sticky situations and you'll be ok....
Post by: shanevg on April 29, 2008, 09:55:30 PM
Post by: boneaddict on April 29, 2008, 10:02:14 PM
Post by: shanevg on April 29, 2008, 10:11:36 PM
Post by: actionshooter on April 29, 2008, 10:20:30 PM
Post by: actionshooter on April 29, 2008, 10:21:49 PM
Post by: JBR on April 30, 2008, 04:04:50 PM
As for the comments about loneliness and thoughts of home while out in the backcountry (even when with a buddy or two), it does creep in, especially when hunting success is poor. When you're seeing animals and putting stalks on them, your mind is focused on the hunt. It's when you are not seeing anything, weather sucks, your're back at camp after a long day's hunt or just sitting up on a high ridge...the thoughts do creep in.
Like others have said, it's nice to know that I'm not the only one that feels the nagging thoughts about home & family after several days in the backcountry. One thing that has worked well for me is keeping a hunting/fishing journal.
On last year's high buck hunt in the Pasayten Wilderness, I spent down time sitting by my spotting scope, jotting down thoughts in the journal. After dinner, back at camp, either by the fire (weather permitting) or in my sleeping bag before going to sleep, I would write about the hunt and what I love about being out there. It helps me to write about the aspects of the backcountry that I love and the feelings I'm having about my wife and kids back at home. It's like a one-sided phone call back home. It's also a great way to reflect on the trip later.
Not long after I get home, I'm already thinking about the next trip back out.
Post by: shanevg on April 30, 2008, 07:52:24 PM
Post by: shanevg on May 01, 2008, 12:33:33 PM
Post by: coastalghost on May 01, 2008, 12:46:31 PM
Post by: BrushChimp on May 01, 2008, 01:27:32 PM
Post by: bullchaser on May 01, 2008, 01:31:44 PM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on May 01, 2008, 01:35:41 PM
Post by: coastalghost on May 01, 2008, 01:43:21 PM
Post by: shanevg on May 01, 2008, 01:50:12 PM
Post by: coastalghost on May 01, 2008, 01:59:01 PM
I thought tarps were waterproof :dunno:
I had thought of using a tarp and sacrificing another....cutting two traingles out of a tarp to "close up the ends" on a regular tarp creating a tent.....A good idea which I may try sometime.....but why? you might as well just pack a good waterproof lightweight tent. I just think its imperative to go as light as you can while still being relatively comfortable. It makes coming out (if you get something) so much easier...if there is such a thing.
Post by: JBR on May 01, 2008, 03:27:38 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi153.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs223%2Fjbrodge%2FMartenLakehike011.jpg&hash=db06ddfa8bf1bdf3e7a9c81d94c905edc4db599f)
...another view.
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi153.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs223%2Fjbrodge%2FMartenLakehike025.jpg&hash=99e9f82d4363b8de720801fb9790a772ab679539)
I added the gromets and tie-downs and use my adjustable trek poles. You can raise or lower it off the ground as you please.
Post by: coastalghost on May 01, 2008, 03:34:27 PM
Post by: JBR on May 01, 2008, 07:40:56 PM
Post by: actionshooter on May 01, 2008, 09:25:23 PM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on May 01, 2008, 09:35:37 PM
Post by: zackmioli on May 01, 2008, 09:41:49 PM
Post by: JBR on May 01, 2008, 09:51:54 PM
It's a simple wood block with a metal punch tube and the grommets (there are different sizes available) that you tap together (one on either side of the fabric) and using a hammer and the metal tapping block, you just crimp the grommet together. Very easy and the kit was around $10.
For those that can't make it to the store in person, they have a great website for ordering online too (www.seattlefabrics.com).
Post by: actionshooter on May 01, 2008, 10:07:01 PM
Post by: ICEMAN on May 02, 2008, 06:35:20 AM
Post by: boneaddict on May 02, 2008, 07:00:10 AM
Post by: bullchaser on May 02, 2008, 07:41:52 AM
Post by: edmondshunter on May 03, 2008, 04:45:47 PM
I personally like the Sierra Design "Meteor Light CD", this tent is light, has very good ventilation, bonus hanging storage shelf w/pockets, and a good sized vestibule w/ a zipper on both sides for access. Ive put a lot of miles on with this tent and I love it.
Also have a Slumberjack Bevy shelter 1 man tent, good for stealth camping. No room for gear in this one, 1 man, 1 bag, 1 change of cloths. So light you barely notice the weight
Post by: PacificNWhunter on May 03, 2008, 07:38:20 PM
Post by: ICEMAN on May 03, 2008, 08:45:02 PM
.......Come to find out I was a HUGE overpacker.Quote
Some of us still are! No kidding though...you can sure get by with less. I do have some must haves though....including a small bottle of spirits.....shame on me.
Post by: coastalghost on May 03, 2008, 09:18:15 PM
Post by: edmondshunter on May 04, 2008, 08:57:25 AM
Quote
Gotta wash down that 800 ibuprofen with something
After years of overpacking, and hundreds of miles on foot, I got that list of things to leave at home. But the Ibuprofen and a little Scotch is a must for a long pack trip. Nothing warms the belly like good Scotch
Post by: Little Fish on May 19, 2008, 01:29:18 PM
Dave Long's book on public land mule deer hunting is another good book to check out.
The Kifaru website has quite a few good threads on back pack hunting
Post by: cascademountainhunter on May 22, 2008, 08:30:27 AM