Preparing the salt pans for spring

5 key points for successful hunting

Clothing

It’s no secret that the temperatures we’re subjectedto are unpredictable. It’s very important to dress well to avoid getting cold or wet. Nowadays, several textile technologies are available to avoid a bad time in the forest. It’s just as important to choose a garment that won’t make any noise when rubbed, which could scare off game. A garment that’s too hot will make you sweat, amplifying your body odor, but one that’s too cold will make you uncomfortable. There are many quality sets that provide comfort and protection for hunters. Made from textiles such as aquatex membrane, fleece, brushed knit and many others.

Samuel Lamarche-Hêtu, consultant at Zone Chasse et Pêche, Val-d’Or’s Écotone dealer.

Weapon or hunting gear

Here’s the point I think is the most important of all and the most neglected by many hunters.SHOOTING PRACTICE… Even if you have the best area, the best conditions, the best hunting partners, the biggest and most beautiful moose, but you don’t know your weapon’s performance or its limits. Your year-round hunting dream could turn into a nightmare when you shoot. No hunter takes pride in having wounded a game animal… Here are a few tips to avoid this:

• Make sure your hunting rifle, bow or crossbow is powerful enough to harvest your game cleanly.
• Make sure you know a little about the ballistics of the projectile or arrow you’re shooting, and of course practice.

So you can feel confident and in control when the king of our forests is in your sights.

For

The first thing to know about moose hunting is that they’re in no hurry… Unlike us,moose don’t wait for anyone, they don’t have any appointments. Do you see what I’m getting at? If so, you’ve already mastered an important element: patience. Walk quietly, take the time to listen, behave like a moose – in short, become a moose.

Another important factor is the wind. Make sure you have as much headwind as possible: if the wind is blowing at your back, it will push your scent towards the game. It’s much easier said than done… So I’d advise you to work once again with odor neutralizer and urine. This way, even if the wind and weather play tricks on you, your game will feel more confident as you move towards it.

After hunting

There you go, you’ve outwitted your game and reaped the rewards – congratulations! But now what? Did you see through your shot? Are you sure you’ll be able to pick up your game where it’s fallen? Do you have the necessary equipment?

The right equipment is essential to transport the venison. Be careful, with the unpredictable temperature, you mustn’t expose the meat to too high a temperature, as you could lose it. What’s more, it’s best to have someone with experience to help you butcher your game, while you’re waiting to visit your butcher.

Don’t hesitate to come and meet me for advice. It is with pleasure and passion that I will accompany you in the preparation of this great adventure that is hunting.

Samuel Lamarche-Hêtu