Whitetail Deer Hunting Trip

Your Destination

Before you can do anything, you first need to decide the destination of your whitetail deer hunting trip. Some places are cold and snowy during the deer hunting season while other places can be downright hot.

Your destination will determine what type of camping gear you need to bring. Keep in mind though, that even if it is warm during the day, most places get fairly cool at night as the seasons progress into fall and winter.

You’ll want clothes that you can layer comfortably as well as a warm sleeping bag. Consider bringing a breathable sleeping bag cover as well as a cot or an air mattress to keep you warm and dry as you sleep. Getting a good night’s sleep can make all the difference between getting that trophy buck and coming home empty handed.

Hunting Regulations

Do you enjoy hunting with a bow or with a rifle? This will naturally affect when and where you will go for your trip. It is a good idea to find the Fish and Game website of the place you intend to visit so you can be sure of the dates of bow season or rifle season.

Make sure you are properly licensed and that you understand the regulations inside and out. Even the slightest breach can result in hefty fines that will ruin the best planned trip. A few rules that would seem to be common sense are also commonly ignored. While each state has its own rules and regulations, some are included in nearly every state’s rule book:

• Wear orange - An orange vest and cap may not be very fashionable, but neither is a coffin. Wear it even if you think you are hunting alone on private land. Why risk getting accidentally shot?

• Don’t shoot from the road - Most states require that you are a certain distance off the road before you can shoot.

• Tag your harvest - Once you have your prize, be sure you tag it immediately. Follow the rules for tagging and reporting your kill.

• Don’t waste the meat - Did you know that some states have programs that allow you to donate your meat to help feed others? It is irresponsible and illegal to kill a deer just for its rack. Sadly, many so-called hunters do just this.

There are always other rules to follow as well. Often people complain about the rules and may feel no need to follow them. This only makes it harder on everyone. Remember, people who call themselves hunters but act in an inconsiderate or irresponsible way are the ones who give hunting a bad name.

Guided Whitetail Deer Hunting Trip

If you are new to hunting or even if you are an old pro you have to try at least one guided hunting trip. Guides know all the sweet spots that you may have never even considered. Often they have access to places that the general public doesn’t.

Many times guided hunting tours will provide some of your camping gear, you’ll just need to bring personal items, a sleeping bag, guns and ammo, and a flashlight. Usually you will be provided with a list of what you need to bring. Some guided hunts are better than others. Here are a few that guarantee an unforgettable whitetail deer hunting trip:

• Triple O Outfitters—What an awesome place to go on a guided hunt! Fees for this Idaho outfitter include food and much of your equipment. You are responsible for tags and license fees.

• Armells Creek Outfitters—This Montana hunting guide takes small groups to hunt on over 70,000 acres of private land. This means you will have access to places that the general public only dreams about. They also assist you in obtaining your license.

• Trophy Hunters Alberta offers an excellent Canadian hunting experience. Camp size is limited to six campers and includes tents with wood stoves and cots. Bring your own sleeping bag and don’t forget the camera!

This is just a very small sampling of the numerous places that offer guided trips. What ever type of trip you choose, plan carefully, keep safety in mind and above all else, have an incredible trip that you won’t soon forget.