I see quite a few deer hunters every year across the river from me. And I’d guesstimate that 90 percent of them make four mistakes that lessen the chances of filling their tag. What I am about to say isn’t an earth-shattering epiphany, just good old common sense. Experienced hunters know these mistakes, but some still make them. 1. Don’t Skyline Yourself When you need to crest a ridge, try to find a bush, tree or rock formation that can help break up your outline. Peek as little of your head over as possible and do a quick survey. Are there any animals out in the open? It’s rare, but it happens often enough to be prepared for it. Next, look for a place very close on the other side from which you can sit down and glass. Get there as quickly as you can without any noise and little movement. 2. Sit Still! Game animals key on movement. I have been in the wide open in front of deer at ranges that could be measured in feet without camouflage, and the deer stayed put or moved off slowly. The secret is to remain absolutely motionless. If, like me, you are a habitual fidgeter, consider using a ground blind. My ground blind holds me and my two dogs, and it conceals motion, as well as the odd cough or other noxious auditory emissions. 3. Shut Up! 4. Learn How to Shoot From Field Positions Practice all four shooting positions—prone, sitting, kneeling and standing—at the range. Buy or make some shooting sticks and carry them with you every time you head afield. At one time I was pretty good at dropping into a sitting position quickly and getting off an accurate shot. Age and an artificial hip have largely stolen that skill from me, so I now utilize shooting sticks virtually all the time. Like I said, these points aren’t anything new; they’re the basics. But ignoring the basics in any endeavor will most often lead to failure.
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