Why Survival Skills Matter for Big-Game Hunters
Hunting big game often takes you into remote, rugged, and unpredictable terrain. From mountainous elk country to dense whitetail forests or the tundra for caribou, being prepared for emergencies is essential. Knowledge of survival skills protects you, your hunting companions, and your harvest, while increasing your confidence in the field.
If you want guided trips where safety and preparedness are emphasized, you can explore vetted outfitters through Find A Hunt.
Core Survival Skills for Hunters
1. Navigation and Orienteering
Getting lost is a common hazard. Hunters should be proficient with:
-
Map reading: Understand topography, contour lines, and terrain features.
-
Compass skills: Always carry a backup to GPS and phone apps.
-
GPS devices and apps: Learn to use satellite maps offline.
-
Trail marking and waypoints: Track your path and key locations like camps or water sources.
Tips:
-
Always plan entry and exit routes.
-
Leave a trip plan with someone you trust.
2. Shelter and Warmth
Exposure is a primary threat in remote hunting areas.
Shelter Options
-
Lightweight tarp or bivy sack
-
Emergency space blanket
-
Lean-tos or natural shelters (brush piles, fallen trees)
Fire Skills
-
Matches, lighters, ferro rods
-
Fire-starting techniques in wet conditions
-
Knowledge of safe fire locations
Clothing
-
Layered moisture-wicking and insulating clothing
-
Waterproof/windproof outer layers
-
Hat, gloves, and extra socks
3. Water Procurement and Purification
Hydration is critical, especially in high-exertion hunts.
Methods
-
Collect water from streams, lakes, or snow.
-
Purify with:
-
Boiling for 5+ minutes
-
Portable water filters
-
Chemical tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide)
-
Always carry a small bottle or hydration pack for emergencies.
4. First Aid Knowledge
Minor injuries can escalate quickly in the backcountry.
Key Skills
-
Treating cuts, sprains, and fractures
-
Recognizing and treating hypothermia or heatstroke
-
Managing blisters and insect bites
-
CPR and basic life support
Kit Essentials
-
Bandages, gauze, antiseptic, tape
-
Splint materials
-
Tweezers, scissors, and safety pins
-
Pain relief and allergy medications
5. Food Procurement and Energy Maintenance
Hunters need calories to sustain energy in remote environments.
-
Pack energy-dense foods: jerky, nuts, dried fruits, protein bars
-
Understand your caloric needs for long treks
-
Know edible plants only if trained; avoid risky foraging
6. Signaling and Communication
In case of emergencies, signaling can save lives.
Options
-
Whistle (three blasts = distress)
-
Mirror or reflective surface
-
Headlamp strobe or flashlight signal
-
Satellite messenger (Garmin inReach, ZOLEO)
-
Two-way radios for group hunts
7. Wildlife Awareness and Safety
Knowing how to handle wildlife encounters reduces risk.
-
Carry bear spray in bear country
-
Recognize signs of predators and avoid risky areas
-
Understand species-specific behavior (moose, elk, bears, cougars)
-
Keep a safe distance from aggressive animals
8. Backcountry Planning & Redundancy
Preparation prevents emergencies.
-
Bring spare batteries, backup fire-starting tools, and extra clothing
-
Know the nearest ranger station, trailhead, or airstrip
-
Use a buddy system when possible
-
Understand seasonal hazards (snow, flood, heat, insects)
9. Emergency Extraction Knowledge
Even experienced hunters can get stuck.
-
Learn basic rope and anchor skills
-
Understand evacuation routes from ridges, rivers, or deep forests
-
Practice moving injured companions safely
-
Know how to flag or guide rescuers to your location
Practicing Skills Before Hunting Season
Simulation builds confidence and reduces panic.
-
Overnight hikes with minimal gear
-
Mock injury and recovery drills
-
Map and compass navigation exercises
-
Fire-making and shelter-building practice
-
Hydration and caloric management under exertion
Integrating Survival Skills With Hunting Efficiency
-
Combine GPS mapping with terrain reading to avoid high-risk areas
-
Carry compact, multi-use survival kits in your pack
-
Use survival skills to extend time in the field ethically and safely
-
Teach and reinforce skills with youth hunters or group participants
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need survival skills for public-land hunts?
Yes—large public lands can be remote and under-hunted, increasing the risk of being stranded or lost.
What’s the most critical survival skill for hunters?
Navigation and shelter are often the most crucial—getting lost or exposed is a primary threat.
Are satellite messengers necessary?
For remote hunts, yes. Cell phones may not work; satellite devices can call for help anywhere.
Can survival skills improve hunting success?
Yes—better navigation, energy management, and knowledge of terrain keep hunters in the field longer and safer.
Should I train my hunting companions?
Absolutely. Group survival depends on each person knowing basic skills and protocols.
If you want, I can also create a species- or region-specific survival guide, e.g., for moose in New Hampshire, elk in the Rockies, or caribou in Alaska, with hazards, gear, and tactics tailored to that hunt.
