Survival Tips for The Hunter

The untamed wilderness is where the primal instincts of humans are put to the test, and being a successful hunter is about more than just tracking your prey and wielding a weapon. It's a complex dance of skill, knowledge, and resilience. To thrive as a hunter, one must not only be attuned to the nuances of the natural world but also possess a deep understanding of survival techniques and strategies.

In this post, we will delve into the essential survival tips for the modern hunter, offering insights that span from honing tracking abilities to mastering outdoor survival skills, ensuring that those who venture into the wild are not just hunters but also survivors.

Pack the Necessities

Sometimes it is easy to lose your way in an unfamiliar wood. Carrying a compass and maps of the general area where you will be hunting can help if you get lost. Carry a flashlight with extra batteries in case you get caught out after dark. (Some flashlights operate with just a shake, eliminating the need for batteries.) Matches in a waterproof case are essential, and a sharp knife is good to have as well. A traditional Bowie or a Swiss Army knife both serves the purpose.

Bring Food and Water

Even if you only plan to be out for a couple of hours, bring food and water that could keep you sustained for a day or two. Granola, protein bars, and dried fruit are good options. Never eat any plants or berries unless you are familiar with what types are suitable for human consumption. If you are unsure of the safety of a plant or its fruit, don't eat it. An illness while stranded in the wild is a lot worse than an empty stomach. Remember, humans can survive for weeks without food but only three days without water. You can also bring a Life Straw to eliminate the need for excess bottles of water.

Carry a Thread and Needle

It is recommended that you carry a needle and thread in your survival kit. Best case, you use it to repair some torn clothing. Worst case, you sue it to stitch up a wound and stop heavy bleeding.

Include a Sturdy Rope

Most hunters carry six to eight feet of rope to help drag their game back to the truck or haul equipment up into a tree stand. However, this rope can be used in many ways if you are stranded in the woods for an extended period of time. You can use a rope for first aid purposes, to help build a shelter, or to secure equipment during your hike. You can even string up a makeshift clothesline to dry wet clothing should you fall into standing water.

Wear a Belt

It is also a good idea to wear a belt when out hunting. A belt can be used as a tourniquet in an emergency, as well as to help secure a splint to a limb if necessary. Plus, a belt is one first-aid item that you don't have to cart around!

Practice Fire Safety

It is important to follow the usual camp safety guidelines when starting a fire under any conditions in the wild. Choose an area away from trees and shrubs, and line your pit with small boulders or stones to help contain the embers, and always triple-check to make sure a fire is completely out before leaving the area to prevent flare-ups and a potential forest fire.