Still Hunting

Contrary to its name, the method of still hunting is the one technique that keeps hunters on their toes. As opposed to stationary hunting from a tree stand or other fixed location, still hunting involves stalking game through the woods much like an animal. The name “still” comes from the objective of the hunter’s movements: when stalking a game animal, the goal is to remain undetected. This requires stealth, precision, and skill. Still-hunted game, such as deer, possess finely-tuned senses and will dart at the first sign of a human. Still-hunting then provides a thrilling challenge for the hunter to get close enough to make a kill.

Technique

Still-hunting allows for the hunter to unleash his or her most primal instincts. What can a human do to outsmart its targeted animal and get within range to take it down? Your first step is to familiarize yourself with the lay of the land. Still hunters typically study and explore a given region prior to hunting season. Using a detailed topographical map and compass, orient yourself with the space and details relevant to finding your game, such as bedding areas, trails, and food and water sources. Next comes the hunt itself. Feeling comfortable with the land, you want to ensure you are just as comfortable in your skin. Dress in warm, quiet clothes appropriate to the weather, balancing the mandatory hunter orange for your safety with effective camouflage for stealth. Cover everything, including your face with “war paint.” Remember that your goal is to be invisible.

Armed with confidence and a loaded weapon, you can begin moving through the woods. Your objective is twofold: find an animal, and remain undetected. This means moving deliberately, slowly, and silently, and actively scanning through the thick brush you will need in order to hide yourself. Use weather conditions to your advantage: rain, winds, snow and damp ground will all help to muffle sound. In drier conditions, or in the event of accidental noise, such as stepping on a twig, aim to make your noise deliberate. Take quick, light steps with intermittent pauses to imitate the sounds of a deer, and use a grunt tube to add to the illusion. Lastly, be mindful of your scent – most game animals will sniff out a human from a mile away. To mitigate this, stalk downwind or crosswind.

Tips

To keep track of subtle changes in the wind, tie a feather or thread to your gun.
A great place to still-hunt in the early season is alongside and downwind of a deer trail that leads from a bedding area to a feeding location.
When still-hunting, you’ll want to carefully consider the weight of your weapon. Ensure you are able to carry it comfortably for long stretches of time.
Imitate a deer’s cadence by landing each foot lightly in two parts: heel-toe, or toe-heel, then pause before your next step.
Never compromise your safety in the name of camouflage. Hunter orange is a must to protect you from other hunters. Remember that other hunters are doing their best to be invisible, too, so you aren’t likely to notice them! Be assured, however, that many animals are unable to see the bright colour due to the nature of their vision.
A popular choice of weapon for still-hunting is a short firearm with a low-powered scope.
You can find links to all provincial guidelines at Environment Canada.