A Hunter’s Guide to the Off Season: 4 Things to Stay Dialed

It’s that time of year where everything freezes and after a long haul in the woods, we take a nice long break to enjoy family, friends and all of the beautiful meat harvested throughout the fall season. Just because the hunts are over however, doesn't mean it’s a long vacation. The trigger pull happens in a moment but preparing for the hunt is a year-round event. Here are a few ways to stay active and ready for the next tag and opportunity that crosses your path.

Keep on Shooting

Many hunters hit the range a few weeks ahead of the season to sight in rifles and practice. While this helps, shooting year-round will simply make you better and more capable. This doesn’t mean you need long distance shooting abilities. But becoming very comfortable at a reasonable range will make you a more effective hunter. Hit the range as often as possible and practice shooting from different positions and rests that reflect real-life field scenarios. Shooting off a bench is fine. But that’s only a start. In addition to shooting from more realistic positions, practice shooting while wearing your backpack, binocular harness, jackets and any other gear that you’ll be wearing on the hunt. Planning to use a bipod or shooting sticks? It’s important to familiarize yourself with all of these items before the hunt.

Maintain Your Fitness

Rather than struggling through a workout regimen a month ahead of your hunt, simply maintain a reasonable level of fitness throughout the year. Keep on hiking and work your legs and core regularly. Even a single hour of exercise each day can make a huge difference when the fall season approaches and you want to ramp things up and hit a nice peak before the hunt. Exercising in your hunting gear on occasion will also ensure you know how everything performs, which translates into a more comfortable hunt.

Cook Last Year’s Game

Hopefully the busy fall hunting season left your freezer full of excellent meat that will keep you and your loved ones fed throughout the year. You can easily cook basic meals that are delicious but consider experimentng with new dishes to really test your limits while making the most of your meat supply. Pick up a few wild game cook books and work through the recipes to discover new and excitng ways to enjoy your harvest.

New Gear and Next Year’s Hunt Calendar

Shooting and training during the off-season are much easier with a little motivation. Take some time and plan your next year’s calendar and set goals for hunts, conditioning and training throughout the year. Knowing you are working towards another great hunt will serve to really keep you going strong throughout the entire year.

Questions About Colorado Elk Hunts

If you have questions about hunting elk with us at Dark Timber Lodge or Timber to Table Guide Service, please feel free to send us a message or call Adam directly at 208-691-3014. We’d love to help you plan a memorable hunting experience!