Members Answer:
I use a headlamp and a GPS. I like to go to the spot during daylight hours and mark it on my GPS. Then when I return during the night, I can use the GPS as a guide. I also use a red or green filtered headlamp so it doesn' t ruin my night vision. Believe it or not, on a clear night you can see a lot without any kind of artificial light source.
- Travis Legler, Dewey, Arizona
In daylight, familiarize yourself with trailside landmarks or make some of your own, so you can reassure yourself you' re on the right path. The blackness is not a place or time for exploring, or wondering if you' re on the right trail. I like headlamps in the LED style. Lots of battery life and a pleasant glow. Even nicer with a red lens cover. Wear a brimmed hat and keep your head slightly down. This will work like cat whiskers, keeping brush from slapping your face or worse, scratching your eyes. Make sure the wind will be favorable for your walk in the dark. Early morning thermals tend to flow downhill.
- Richard Mitchell, Moscow, Idaho
The best way to hike in the dark is to use a headlamp. Just remember that a light moving around in the dark is something elk are not used to, so when you get close to your hunting area, turn off the light and take a break until you can see well enough to continue without it.
- Ryan Johnson, Gunnison, Colorado
Except on the darkest nights or in the thickest timber, there is usually enough ambient light to get where you want to go without artificial light. Our night vision is better than you think, if you practice a bit. Before you leave your truck, give your eyes a few minutes to adjust to the darkness. Switching a white light on and off effectively destroys your natural night vision, so keep your light in a pocket until you really need it. Chances are you won' t.
- Steve Fillerup, Elk Ridge, Utah
Next Question: (Answers will appear in the September-October 2006 Bugle)
Do elk perceive the sounds of an ATV as benign? Do they learn to associate them with danger? Is there a point at which an ATV becomes a liability rather than an asset in elk hunting?
- John Vieira, Palisades, Colorado
We need new questions and more answers!
If we publish your question or answer, we'll send you a special Bugle hat. Please address questions and answers to : Don Burgess, Bugle hunting editor, RMEF, 5705 Grant Creek Road, Missoula, MT 59808. Or send to q_and_a@rmef.org. |