The fun (and work!) does not stop once you land your trophy buck — no, you’ve still got to think about packing out before you finish up the hunt.
The best spots for hunting are typically far from any convenient roads, parking lots, or trails. You are likely deep into the backcountry and are miles and miles away from your truck, trailer, and more. Doing this can make finishing your hunt a bit challenging, but with a few of the rules below, you’ll have no problem packing out this season.
Here Are Some Guides to Packing Out After Your Hunt
Choose Your Method — There are many ways that a hunter chooses to pack out post-hunt. Between manpower, a utility vehicle of some sort, or horse or mule, you can find a method that works best for you and your location. Before you head for the mountains on your exciting hunt, make sure to have a good plan in place.
Get in Shape — If you plan to pack out your animal on foot, make sure you take time now to make sure you are in good, physical shape. Hiking to your campground and being able to maneuver the terrain is one thing, but being able to pack out with hundreds of pounds on your back is another. Take time now to start working out and getting fit.
Protect Your Meat — Your number one priority when you pack out should be to protect your meat. Keeping it clean and dry is essential! Always use a tarp or emergency blanket to lay your harvest on before you begin cutting. During warmer weather hunts, bring citric acid packets to protect against flies and bacteria. And for colder hunts, make sure your meat is elevated and separated on a pole to allow ideal airflow.
Use Bags — One of the best ways to protect your meat when you’re packing out is to use game bags — four bags, to be exact. You should also bring 50 feet of parachute cord so you can hang them. You can adequately distribute weight by placing a loin or two, neck meat, and a backstrap with the bag holding the front shoulders. To lighten your load, you may want to consider removing the bones, especially if it’s hot.
Check Local Regulations — Before you leave a bunch of game parts lying around on the hillside, make sure to check local regulations on what you can leave behind carefully. After your successful hunt, the last thing you want to deal with is getting into trouble with the law.
Packing Out with BangBang Outdoors Company
While tedious, packing out your harvested big game animal is an exciting part of your hunt. As your season ends and you’ve successfully packed out, it’s time to think about booking your next hunt.
