Best High Country Tips

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IDArcher

Guest
Well guys the time of year is upon us when some will be heading to the high country in search of a nice velvet buck so I thought this would be a good time to compile a list of tips and tactics to help those who make the trek as successful as possible.

1. Get up plenty early to be in glassing position at first light
2. Get in great shape (might be a little late if you haven't started yet)
3. Know the area you will be hunting so that you know likely feeding locations, bedding locations, and escape routes.
4. Dont be afraid to stay out all day long. you never know when you'll catch a buck standing up to stretch or grab a bite to eat in the middle of the day.
 
I would add to keep hydrated and eat when ever you can. Amazing how quick you burn calories hunting the high country.
 
I think a lot of people forget the fitness element. This, in my opinion, is the biggest key to success at elevation. If you think you are out of shape where you live, try doing everything in the high country, good luck being succesful.
 
and the right gear----weather can change so quick. one min. its sunshine and the next its pouring rain or snow
 
Take a good look around at any trees that you might take shelter or make your camp by. Lots of hazard trees around these days but always was good advice, especially if a storm rolls through.

Joey


"It's all about knowing what your firearms practical limitations are and combining that with your own personal limitations!"
 
I don't know if its too late to get started, but you need to be strategic how you train. I find that Tabita intervals for me are the most effective way to get my cardio in better shape fast. The short version is sprint at full speed for 2 minutes, jog or walk for 2 minutes. I try and do 8 reps. If you do those for a month a few times a week, you will have a huge improvement in your ability to metabolize oxygen.
 
Being phyiscally fit goes a long ways on any hunt, esp in the high country. Being prepared mentally is another key IMO. Having a good mental attitude makes a huge differnce esp if things aint going exactly to plan. If I find myself tired middle of the day and not focusing 100%, I take a snooze.

On a side note, Ive been working away from home the last 2 months on a job and now back. Been doing cardio even while away. Elevetion change of approx 4000 feet higher at my home. I felt like a midget drop kicked me in my torso my first work out back home.
 
don't start your stalk till the early afternoon, wait for the wind to become consistant. you can't go slow enough, and if it's not perfect on a big buck, back out and try again tomorrow.

NVMDF
 
Stamina - staying power. Lots of people give up after 1-3 days. Stay long and hunt hard. It can be a marathon, but you also need mental perserverence. Don't be scared to move to new coutry and at least in Wyoming, if the stuff above timberline is getting pounded, move just a bit lower and look in the timber.
 
Its all about mental toughness. anyone in shape "or not" can hunt the hill for a few days. when the weekend warriors go home "stay and hunt". that buck you've been scouting will show up eventually. make the stock and be patient or sit the spot you know he feeds past. If he's feeding and moving don't be scared to pick up and get in front of him to be in place for the shot! sit in front of cover not behind, trying to mess around finding a shooting lane usually leaves you with no shot and a buck finding a different zip code. right after you think he may be gone he usually shows up!! Camp with buddies on the archery but don't hunt with buddies "unless they are your spotter on a stock". you will be more patient and kill better deer. that's my advice, but hey, i probably don't know jack!!
 

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