The air is starting to feel a little crisper, a little colder, and fresher. Late summer is giving way to autumn, and for many of us, another hunting season is just around the corner.
For many hunters, the season really gets underway in August and September, followed by one game species and hunting method after another all the way through to Christmas.
Tips Before the Autumn Hunt
- Spend some time at the shooting range
- Clean, service, and prepare your rifle
- Get to know the terrain and hunting area
- Train — both yourself and, if relevant, your dog
- Check all your equipment
- Make sure your footwear is up to the task
- Review your GPS, maps, and compass
- Dress for the conditions
- Read up on local and national hunting regulations
Packing List for Autumn Hunting
- Good boots and socks, plus blister plasters
- Windproof and waterproof outerwear
- Gloves and/or mittens
- GPS with maps
- A comfortable chair and/or a sit pad
- Gun cleaning kit
- Rifle, ammunition, and bolt
- Food and drink
- Knife
- First aid kit
- Jerven bag / survival bivvy or insulated wind bag
An easy to carry survival kit can come in handy in any situtaion.
Spend Some Time at the Shooting Range
It’s never a bad idea to sharpen up old skills, get reacquainted with your trigger pull, and build confidence in your shooting before heading out into the field.
A few good sessions at the range can make a real difference once the hunt begins.
Clean, Service, and Prepare Your Rifle and Ammunition
Before the season starts, make sure your rifle is clean, properly maintained, and ready for use.
Check your ammunition as well, so you know everything is in good condition and functioning as it should.
Get to Know the Terrain and Hunting Area
If possible, spend some time in the area before the hunt begins. If you hunt with a dog, it can also be a good idea to let your dog become familiar with the terrain.
Are there any difficult sections? Where can rivers or streams be crossed? Are there parts of the area that don’t quite match what the map suggests?
Learn the Terrain and Movement Patterns
No matter what you’re hunting, it’s always a good idea to study the terrain and understand the likely movement routes and patterns in the area.
If you already have a plan for where to sit in concealment, where to park the car, and which routes are best to take, you’ll be in a much stronger position before the hunt even begins.
Even simple things — like checking whether there is mobile coverage or radio signal in the area — can make a big difference.
Train Before the Season Starts
Both you and any four-legged hunting companion will benefit from being physically prepared before the season begins.
Train with the gear you plan to use and try to simulate the type of hunt you’re heading out on. The more realistic your preparation, the better.
Check Your Equipment
Whether it’s your hunting boots, backpack, or camouflage clothing, don’t wait until the day of the hunt to dig it out if it’s been sitting in the cupboard for months.
Maybe your gear needs a run through the washing machine, a fresh waterproofing treatment, or perhaps it’s finally time to replace an old blind or update your camouflage setup.
Footwear
Make sure you’re wearing the right footwear.
Whether you choose low or high boots, whether you’re walking far or short distances, carrying heavy or light loads — many hunting trips have been ruined by poor footwear.
Break your boots in before the hunt and use blister plasters if needed.
GPS, Maps, and Compass
Take some time to refresh your knowledge of the technical side of your kit.
Maybe you have a watch that can be connected to your GPS and dog tracking collar. Perhaps there are new software updates or features available for equipment you already own.
Make sure you also have the correct map sheets, with clear boundaries for the hunting ground you’ll be using.
Gear up with all you need for the trip.
Dress for the Conditions
Be prepared for changing and unpleasant weather.
Autumn brings colder temperatures, wind, and more precipitation, so make sure you dress properly for the conditions.
A day in the field doesn’t have to be ruined by rain or sleet — as long as you’re prepared.
Read Up on the Regulations
A quick refresher on the rules is always worth doing.
There may be new laws or regulations in place, or changes to rules that already existed. Make sure you’re up to date with both local and national hunting regulations before the season starts.