Hunting with portable solar chargers and camping is an activity that goes hand in hand and is gaining popularity. Centuries ago, hunters often had no choice but to camp out until they were able to bring food home for their families. Nowadays, people enjoy solar hunting and camping with portable solar chargers because it gives them a chance to feel independent and enjoy the outdoors. I don’t do much hunting these days and the hunting I did participate in last year was orchestrated by a professional guide, but this seems to me the way to go.
There are many different types of solar hunting with portable power, but all have two very important things in common: the need for safety and ethical hunting practices.
The first step you should take is plan a safe hunting camping trip. Portable solar power panels and batteries can make your camp life a little easier shedding some light on those dark nights. Along with the rest of your group, you should map out your trip in advance and tell your family or a trusted friend know about your plans. If you are late returning, they will be able to tell authorities where you might be so they know where to search for you.
Choose your hunting party, camping equipment, supplies and portable solar carefully. You will rely on each other and on your solar equipment during the trip. At least one of your companions should be an experienced hunter and camper. Plan your supplies and equipment list together to make sure you remember all camping supplies, coordinate using your portable solar equipment and leave unnecessary items at home.
Depending on the game you are solar hunting, you may be hiking, canoeing or driving an ATV. Obey trail and road rules. Check the weather before you go, then plan and pack as needed. Never plan to hunt in an unknown area; it is important to know the terrain and whether other hunters will be in the region. With your hunting partners, make a plan in case of an emergency. At least two hunters should have first aid training and carry first aid kits. Having a portable solar charger as part of your standard camping equipment can keep your GPS and cell phone battery charged all week and minimize the chance of falling out of touch with your loved ones.
Each member of your hunting party should take a hunting safety course before setting out. This will teach you basic survival skills, gun safety and ethical hunting practices. Bring enough food with you to last throughout the trip if the hunt is unsuccessful. Pack plenty of drinking and cooking water. Don’t forget to set your portable solar charger in an area that does not receive shade throughout the day. Remember as you pack that if the hunt is a success, you will be going back home with more than you came with; leave enough room to bring home your catch.
Read and understand the hunting laws in the state you are visiting. Get the necessary permits and licenses well in advance. Respect bag limits and tagging guidelines. You must be familiar with your gun or bow before you go. Bring extra ammunition and learn about the type of shell or bullet you should use to bring down the different types of game you might encounter. Unload your gun during transport and in camp. Know how the safety operates, as well as how to clean and store your gun.
One of the most memorable parts of hunting camping is the camaraderie and companionship in camp. I would actually prefer an evening in the tent playing cards powered with LED lights and an Overland Portable Solar charger (shown) than a day tramping around in the field. Too often, hunters enjoy their time in camp with a few too many alcoholic beverages. Drinking during a hunting trip is irresponsible and leads to tragic accidents each and every year. The risk of an accidental shooting is greatly increased when one or more of the hunting party is drinking. It can also contribute to dehydration or hypothermia, which can both be fatal. When you and your friends are far from medical help, you need to avoid potentially dangerous situations such as those caused by drinking.
Use walkie-talkies to communicate with your hunting partners. (Hint, keeping your critical batteries charged is where a base camp portable solar charger really comes in handy.) Blaze-orange clothing is a mandatory safety clothing to increase your visibility to other hunters. You should know each person’s exact location at all times.
Hunting is exciting but carries with it responsibilities. Don’t use practices such as jacklighting to trap your prey. Before taking a shot, judge the distance between yourself and the animal. Is your ammunition powerful enough to kill the animal at this distance? Head, heart or lung shots are ideal; if you are going to have to shoot it in the back, behind or legs, wait for a better shot. Look into the distance behind the animal for a clear path if you miss your shot.
You must track and kill an injured animal. It’s cruel and unethical to allow an animal to escape bleeding to eventually die in the wilderness. Always tag a downed animal with brightly colored material during field dressing or transport. Never dress the animal near your camp, or hang the animal near the entrails, in case there are bears in the area.
Story Source: Beginner Camping Tips