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Deer hunting season is just around the corner! Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a beginner, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season, which can lead to mistakes. So, to help you have a successful season, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind as you head out into the woods.

Do’s

When it comes to the do’s and don’ts of deer hunting this season (and any other season/animal) one of the most important things to remember is your hunting license. Keep in mind that it is illegal to hunt without a license. Some of the other do’s to keep in mind include:

• Do practice firearm and bow safety. It is essential that you test your firearm before heading into the woods. This will allow you to get readjusted to your firearm and adjust the sights as needed. Always keep your firearm unloaded during transport and when changing hunting areas.
• Do dress appropriately. Your face and hands are the two most frequently moving body parts, so wearing a face mask and gloves helps you blend in with your surroundings. Always wear blaze orange when you are entering and exiting the woods as this will prevent other hunters from mistaking you as being wildlife.
• Do try to be scent free. Human odor will spook any deer around you. Shower with a scent-free soap and wash your hunting clothes in scent-free detergent. It’s best to keep your hunting clothes in a sealed plastic container until you get to the tree stand and cover yourself and your stand with leaves and dirt for a natural scent.
• Do avoid tick bites. While you are scouting, make sure to douse yourself with tick repellent to prevent dangerous tick bites.

Don’ts

One of the most important don’ts to keep in mind during deer season is that you are hunting deer. Do not under any circumstances hunt illegal game. Other don’ts to remember include:

• Don’t point your firearm or bow at anything you do not intend to shoot at and always be aware of your intended target’s surroundings.
• Don’t slam your car door. When things are quiet in the woods, any little sound can carry far distances. Slamming car doors are unnatural sounds that will cause any deer in the area to run.
• Don’t leave trash in the woods. Not only is trash annoying for others in the woods, but it is also extremely dangerous for the local wildlife. Remember to clean up any trash, including cigarettes, and properly dispose of everything when you exit the woods.

Deer hunting can be an incredibly rewarding hobby for anyone with an interest in hunting, but it is essential that you abide by the rules and consider your safety at all times. Before heading out into the woods make sure someone knows the location where you will be hunting and take a cell phone with you (keep it muted while in the woods).

Hunting season is right around the corner and Norton Sporting Goods is here to help get you ready. Stop by today to gear up for the upcoming season or upgrade to something new!