A Few Things to Think about When Still Hunting

Plan Ahead

Always have a game plan going into an afternoon of still hunting. Have a target species in mind and understand where they hang out and why they are there. If you are still hunting alone, be aware of your surroundings. You want to be able to hear or see other hunters and their shots as you don’t want to get caught up in a crossfire situation. If you are still hunting with a group, have a plan for how you are going to operate as a group and have a game plan. If you are hunting with a bow and have plans to hunt after dark, be sure to have the right equipment for effective night hunting.

Stay Dry and Comfortable

Hunting is always a challenge but you can’t go wrong by starting with keeping yourself dry and comfortable. Make sure you have the right clothing for the conditions you are hunting in. If you are hunting in cold weather, you will want to have a warm and dry pair of boots that are broken in. In warmer weather, you will want to make sure you have plenty of water and a light pair of footwear. To reduce any noise created while still hunting, wear a pair of gloves while you are in the thick brush. You can also use a camo face mask to protect your face and eyes from insects and branches. Keep yourself comfortable and focused on your surroundings by using a lightweight backpack. If you are hunting with a bow, make sure to keep your bow secure and out of the dirt.

Use Good Footwear

We mentioned above that hunting boots make a big difference when still hunting. Hunting boots are designed with specific features that make them ideal for still hunting. A thick pair of hunting boots are less likely to make noise in the brush and will have a sturdy sole that makes it easier to sneak up on an animal. Hunting boots will also protect your feet from debris and thorns in the brush. Sneakers are comfortable but are not designed for the terrain and type of hunting you will be doing when still hunting. If you get a pair of hunting boots that are broken in, they will be more comfortable and last longer than a new pair of sneakers.

Learn How to Sit Motionlessly

Still-hunting is all about the art of sitting in one spot for long periods without moving. For many people, this is the most challenging aspect of still-hunting. If you are new to still-hunting, you may want to first try still-hunting while sitting on a stool or a tree stump. This will help you to get a feel for being stationary and keeping your muscles relaxed and comfortable. There are several ways to keep yourself as still as possible. Try to remain as relaxed as possible and be conscious of your breathing. Focus on your surroundings and try to tune out any thoughts or feelings that may cause you to move or make noise.

Use Quality Equipment

This is true for any type of hunting, but especially when you are still hunting. You don’t want to spook the animals by making too much noise, so try to use as little gear as possible. When you are still hunting, you are going to want a lightweight and quiet backpack to carry your gear in. If you are hunting at night, a small black or dark-colored backpack will help keep you concealed. There are also hunting boots designed for still-hunting that have a quieter soles. Bowhunters will want to use a bowstring, like the Bowjax Frictionless Bowstring, that has no stretch and is quiet to shoot.

Find the Right Hunting Spot

The best way to start still hunting is to find a good hunting spot where the animals you want to hunt will most likely pass through. Before you decide on a location, you need to understand what animals will be moving through that area and during what time of day. Find an area that has a lot of food for the animals you are hunting. This will be an indicator that the animals are using that area. Try to find an area where there is a bit of cover, as this will make it easier for you to be stationary and not spook the animals.

Conclusion

Still hunting is a great way to get out in the woods and spend time with friends and family. It is a challenging way to hunt that can be rewarding and will test your patience. When you are still hunting, you need to be comfortable being still. You need to be able to sit without fidgeting and without making any noise. You also need to be able to focus on your breathing and remain relaxed and quiet. While still hunting may be challenging, it is a great way for hunters to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature and spend time outside.