Top tips for hunting on horseback

The big game hunting seasons are winding down; however, now is the best time to begin planning for next year's big game hunting season. If you are planning a guided hunt in the west, you may need to use a mule or a horse to get you to the high country. One of the benefits of hiring an outfitter for your next big game hunt is they can help you get to the best hunting areas. This can mean a two hour ride on a mule or horse. At other times, you may need to ride twelve hours on mountain trails. When you book your guided hunt, ask how long the ride will be to the best hunting areas.

There are many advantages to horseback riding when hunting. First, you can cover a lot more ground faster than you can when hiking. You can also carry much more gear. Using a horse will allow you to travel further into the high country to the best spots. Finally, if you get a thousand-pound elk, the horse will be able to carry it out of the high country much easier than you can.

Check out Our Post: Getting High! It will help you properly prepare for high altitude hunts.

Speak with your outfitter about the gear that you should bring. Most outfitters have a maximum bag size. This bag size is similar to the limits imposed by the airlines for carry-on bags. They may also have a recommendation on the best type of boots. Many large winter boots cannot fit into stirrups. Discuss boot size with your outfitter to ensure you will not have any issues on the trail.

Many outfitters do not share this tip; however, it can be very beneficial. Equestrian Co advise you pack a pair of cycling shorts or pants to wear under your hunting camo. This prevents soreness for those who are not accustomed to riding for long periods of time.

You want to prepare for high country hunts to ensure your success and your safety. You should get in shape as you may need to ascend or descend steep terrains. Furthermore, this training will help you prepare for long rides in the saddle. You should always work out before any high country hung; however, it is especially important for those who will be horseback hunting.

Before beginning any exercise program, speak with your physician to ensure you are healthy enough to exercise.

Eat Healthy Meals - A healthy lifestyle requires eating healthy meals. You can be tempted to gorge yourself on brownies, soft drinks, potato chips, etc.; however, they do nothing other than satisfy a craving. They will not provide you with the energy that you need. Instead, opt for fruit infused water, dried fruits, nuts, and homemade sweet potato chips.

Rest - One of the main excuses for not exercising is that you are too tired. When you rest, your body rejuvenates and restores your energy. A sedentary life often leads to laziness. The more active you are, the more active you want to be. Rest when you are tired; however, after resting, stay active!

Exercise - There is that word again - exercise. There are many different ways to exercise. You do not need to join a gym and take exercise classes. You can run, hike, swim, go for a walk, play team sports, etc. Find something you enjoy doing and get out there and get active. It is time to banish those excuses and get moving so you are fit for your next high country horseback hunting adventure.

Sitting on a horse requires you to use a lot of muscles that you do not use when you are sitting. You will need to engage your core muscles and legs to stay balanced. Here are some activities that will help prepare you for the next hunting season.

Ride a Horse

There is no better way to prepare for a horseback hunt than ride a horse. If you do not own a horse, there is no need to worry, there are numerous places where you can rent a horse and go trail riding. Horseback riding burns around 700 calories an hour. In addition to burning calories, horseback riding will help strengthen your hamstrings, quadriceps and core muscles. Finally, you will learn how to handle a horse before you go on a horseback hunt next year.

Use an Elliptical or Treadmill

If you do not have an exercise machine, you can experience the same effect by loading a backpack and going to a track at your local high school. You do not need to run. Simply walk briskly and increase your heart rate for maximum benefit.

Climb

A great way to build up your endurance and leg muscles is to climb hills or climb bleachers. Make sure you have your loaded pack with you to help strengthen your leg muscles and your core muscles. Wearing your filled pack will help increase your balance when wearing your pack while you are out on your hunt.

Walk Your Dog

Another way to increase your endurance and physical fitness are to take your dog for a walk. If you do not have a dog, borrow your neighbor's dog. Or, take your child on a walk with you.

Weight Lifting

If you do not have weights, you can still weight lift. You can grab a jug of water or some large cans from your pantry. Another option is yoga bands. These are less than $20 and can be found at most sporting goods stores. Do a combination of triceps extensions, bicep curls, squats, overhead presses, and lunges.

There is no reason why you cannot get in shape. Find activities that you like and design a routine you will stick to. Exercise five days a week and by next hunting season, you will be in shape and ready to hunt on horseback.