I just started hunting two years ago, so let’s see if I can recall some of the bigger lessons I have learned during this short time period, all of which I have pretty much learned on my own (trial and error).

If using buckshot, triple-check your pattern from 20-50 yards to determine how far you can shoot. Once you are no longer getting at least 4 pellets in a 6-inch circle, you’re out of the gun’s effective range. Generally, it’s best to avoid using buckshot, except in certain scenarios.

If, on the first shot, your quarry doesn’t fall, and you still have a shot…ANY SHOT…at that animal, take it. Fire until the deer is down. A little lost gunshot meat is better than losing the deer.

If you are not certain that your animal is down for the count, WAIT before tracking. Pushing a wounded animal is the worst thing you can do.

Decide what you will and will not take before you go out. Coming home regretting that you didn’t take a specific deer isn’t fun. Often times, you have only a moment to make the shot in the woods, and that is not the time to decide.

If a redneck slob hunter wounds a deer (hits in the leg!) and you have to put it down after you have already decided to let it go (not realizing it was wounded at the time), DO NOT give the slob hunter the deer when he comes looking for it. And go ahead and give him a piece of your mind while you’re at it (Is there a hint of regret there? Oh yeah!).

Pack your heavy clothes while you’re hiking in. I now use a military utility belt with suspenders and attach compression sack to it for the heavy clothes. Keeps the sweat from building up under a backpack.

If you’ve bought a used bolt action gun, disassemble the bolt and clean it thoroughly before taking it out in the field. Some people feel the need to dump gallons of oil in their bolt to keep it lubed, which will cause it to get sluggish in the cold and MISFIRE, costing YOU a deer.

Buy a pair of binoculars and a harness to go with them.

Be as still as possible when in a stand or sitting on the ground. When you MUST move, be absolutely sure there are no deer near you before doing so, using a pair of binoculars if necessary. They have the most awesome camo around.

Try still hunting for a change when it’s rainy, super windy, or especially when it’s first starting to snow.

Carry a compass and water at all times.

There’s no harm in knowing where your exact POI will be a 15, 10 or even 5 yards. Or 5 feet, for that matter.

Always keep an extra knife on your person (not in your pack, not on your utility belt) at ALL times. Same goes with having an extra load/rounds ON YOUR PERSON.

Always keep your gun RIGHT with you, no matter what!