As hunting season winds down and in some areas comes to a complete halt, we are faced with a dilemma. What to do now? All of us “hard core” hunters eagerly and impatiently count down the days to the next hunting season with great anticipation. The beauty of the off season is usually masked in the desire for the next season to open. The true beauty lies within the off season, which is busier than the hunting season!

The bow hunter must keep up their top notch shooting skills, which may require a few practice sessions, purchasing new arrows and reading up on the newest gear available. This may also include getting new reeds and calls, stocking up on scents and the purchase of new camouflage to replace the faded clothing worn in many previous hunts.

The rifle hunter perhaps has the easiest off season preparation of all however, there are still things to do! The rifle hunter must plan out which tags to put in for, purchase new bullets, replace worn out camouflage clothing and stock up on scents and a new call or two… or three. Perhaps even renew a gun range membership and the occasional practice session to ensure the sights are properly set.

The busiest by far are the upland bird and waterfowl hunters. The bird hunter must keep their skills sharp by shooting clay pigeons, reading up on the newest calls and camouflage gear, perform regular check ups at retail stores for decoys on sale, and keeping their hunting dog in shape. Not to mention purchasing new camouflage to replace the worn and faded and purchase new calls. Perhaps team up with a friend for ‘mock’ hunts to keep dogs sharp as tacks and drill dogs on retrieves and blind retrieves.

The one thing that the bow hunter, rifle hunter and bird hunter have in common: The off season is normally spent thinking back to the last season. The big one we almost had, how we are going to get them next season (and making up new excuses for missing shots…) but that is what keeps us going ladies! The hopes that the big one made it through the winter to try and outsmart us again next season. So, however you spent your off season, may you always feel blessed to have hunted one more season. Happy Hunting!