How To Be The Client Outfitters Like in Camp

There have been many hunts ruined by weather, lack of animals and sometimes by an incompetent guide. In my years of guiding, I will admit that I screwed up a few opportunities. It was my fault and my fault only, that a hunter didn't go home with a critter. I hate writing that because it takes me right back to those times and places. You always remember the screw ups. Learn from your mistakes and move on.

The majority of clients who go home empty handed though, have themselves to blame. They may not know or even consider the fact that their own actions resulted in an un-punched tag. The truth of the matter is, most guys are unprepared for the task at hand.

Shooting abilities

While working sportsmen shows, one of the most asked question is, how far can I expect to shoot? My response is anywhere from 100 yards out to 500. With a bow, you'd better be able to shoot 50 yards with 70 being a better distance to be comfortable at. Do I want you taking a shot you're not comfortable with? No.. but yes.

I understand with a rifle, you might not be comfortable past 300 yards. Even though you are not comfortable past that, I want you to know what the gun is doing past that and have the confidence to shoot it if need be. It is somewhat understandable that folks can't find a place to shoot over 300 yards but you could if you really wanted too. And if the outfitter or guide your gonna be hunting with says those shots might be possible, why wouldn't you want to practice at those ranges? You spend all that money on the hunt, you should be prepared for the “what if” opportunity.

Hunting with the bow is a little different. It takes more time and practice to become efficient at longer ranges than it does with a gun. Having said that, everyone should be able to find a place to air their bows out. It just takes commitment.

Shooting is the most important part the client has on his/her shoulders during a guided hunt. Take the time to practice. You don't have to shoot dozens of shots a night. Simply shoot until you are confident. Your guide and your taxidermist will be glad you did.

Control under pressure

When a buck or bull is standing broadside, can you keep your composure? Learning to fight off “buck fever” is one of the hardest things to do in hunting. Deep breaths and talking yourself through the shot is one way to offset buck fever. Practice different techniques until you find what works for you. Become a killer. As guides, we all want hunters who, when the opportunity presents itself, can get it done.

Physical and mental toughness

If you are going on a hunt where you have to hike and all you do is sit at a desk all day, your gonna be in trouble. Changing altitudes is bad enough but throw in 5-10 miles a day on a guy that isn't ready for it and things can get even uglier. Take the time to at least walk if you're not the active type. Start slow and build yourself up to where you can comfortably do three miles at a time with a 40 pound pack on your back. If you're so inclined, lift weights and do some running. If your body can't handle the stress of exercise, you may want to re-evaluate going on the hunt.

Treestand or ground blind hunts take on a whole new kind of toughness, the mental kind. It's way harder for me to sit in one spot all day than it is to hike all day. I'm a whitetail guides worst nightmare in that regard. But if that's what your guide tells you to do, you probably better do it if you want to be successful. Taking enough food and water to get you through the day certainly makes it easier. A good book also helps pass the time.

Play well with others

Want to make your outfitter happy? Get along with the other hunters in camp. Sure, there may be times when you just can't stand to hear the sound of someone's voice. Get over it and tolerate it.

Don't…..

Complain about the food or accommodations. You are there to hunt, so hunt. If the place turns out to not be what you expected, don't go back. Enjoy your time there even though you expected more. One bad attitude in camp can ruin it for everyone else.

Don't be Mr. know-it-all. Want to be labeled a jack wagon? Then by all means tell everyone how great you are. Tell all about all the trophy animals you've killed and about how much money you make. That will get you well on your way. Might even get you an unused tag!

Relax

Learn to enjoy the hunt. Folks going on hunting trips are all amped up. Their only thoughts are on killing the animal they're after. Slow down! Relax. You can't run around like a chicken with its head cut off and expect to be successful. Understand that taking naps in down times, ensures that, you are ready when the action picks up. It doesn't mean you aren't giving it your all, just means you are being smart.

Above all else

Listen to your guide. Listen to your guide. Should I say it again? There's a pretty good chance that you do not know how to hunt his ground better than he does. There are exceptions of course but the majority of the time, your guide knows best. Listen, watch and learn. Having stated that, we do screw up at times but if you have hired a reputable guide, chances are he has a game plan mapped out for your hunt. Stick to it. Putting doubt in your guides head is as bad as him lacking confidence in you.

And…

Put your best foot forward and give the hunt your all when asked to. That's all outfitters and hunting guides really expect out of our clients. If you do that, good things usually happen. And if they don't work out, at least you left no stones unturned.