Thread: Safer practices

Change the attitudes away from the "I have to shoot something" is what is required. Too many people go into the bush and think if they don't kill something the hunt isn't successful. Hunting is not about killing animals, its about the experience. Seeing animals and not shooting them is still hunting. Walking away knowing you could have shot something without it even knowing you were there is pretty satisfying. Just because you've shot more animals than your mate or his mate does not make you a better hunter OR more experienced.

I NEVER go hunting with the attitude that I need to shoot an animal. If I see one great, if I shoot one...that's nice too, but if I return home empty handed I don't care. As a result of this I've had more enjoyable hunts, seen MORE animals, shot better animals, got some awesome footage and photos which last longer than a venison steak, and because of this I have never been in a position where I've felt uncomfortable hunting with my mates. These days I am lucky if I shoot 1% of what I see, and I shoot a number of meat animals a month and usually a couple of decent "trophy" type animals during the season.

My advice is, if you hear, see, or smell a deer/target animal...be prepared to sit and wait until you can tell what sex the animal is, what age it is, if you're after a stag...is it worth shooting or not? The only way to do this is to STOP and EVALUATE before you acquire the target and pull the trigger. You may lose the odd animal because of this but it WILL make you a better and safer hunter. Doubt me??? I challenge you to try it.