When the 2008 firearms deer season opens Saturday, about a half-million hunters will journey to the field to hunt white-tailed deer.
Astute hunters will carry with them a variety of gear -- some essential, some less so -- in a fanny pack or backpack. Here is a checklist of items to include (your actual list may vary according to your individual style of hunting, length of your hunt and remoteness of your hunting location):
• Compass, GPS or both; maps; waterproof matches, butane lighter or both; flashlight; knife; folding saw; hunting license and string for attaching tag to deer; deer drag rope or strap; cell phone with fully charged battery; toilet paper; trail marking ribbon; extra ammunition; rain gear; plastic garbage bags; snacks; drinking water; field dressing gloves; hand wipes and rattling antlers.
Also on the list: deer calls; deer scent; binoculars; range finder; extra gloves, cap and clothing; tree steps; rope or cord for hauling firearm and other items up to your deer stand; safety harness; compact camera; extra batteries for various electronics; hand, foot and body warmers; first aid kit; space blanket for emergency shelter; scope caps; and a signal whistle
Most of these items are self-explanatory. Some however, require a brief description of why the item should be included and how it can be used.
For example, plastic garbage bags can be used as emergency rain wear. Simply cut a hole in a bag and slip it over your head while you wait out a rain or snow shower. The bags can also be used to stow cuts of meat should a hunter need to quarter a deer in the field. Garbage bags also make good ground cloths. Carry several since they are lightweight and take up little room in your pack.
More and more hunters are relying on electronic devices while afield such as a cell phone, GPS and range-finder. Be sure to carry extra fresh batteries for each electronic device.
A reliable flashlight is a must-have item in your hunting backpack. There are many lightweight, battery-saving models available today, so if you still carry that bulky 6-volt flashlight, you should check out the latest at your local sporting goods store. The models that clip to your cap are especially useful because they allow both hands to be free for doing common hunting chores such as field dressing a deer after dark.
I've become fond of the chemical hand and foot warmers. I find the foot warmers especially useful because I can hunt in lighter-weight boots and still keep my feet toasty. Same goes for the hand warmers. No need for bulky mittens; instead I just toss a warmer in each pocket and wear only thin gloves.
This list of essential items is by no means all-inclusive. If your deer hunting backpack contains items you find necessary that aren't included on the above list please note those items in the "comments" section following this column.
Bill Marchel, an outdoors photographer and columnist, lives near Brainerd, Minn.
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