Hunting is an exhilarating and thrilling experience, but it's also a lot of hard work. Once you've successfully harvested that big game animal, the real work begins. Celebrations and photos aside, the daunting task of packing out your meat without ruining it or exhausting yourself awaits. While it's great to have the convenience of a trailhead or a UTV, sometimes you have to quarter the animal and pack it out on your back. This is where being mentally and physically prepared is crucial. But don't worry, we've got you covered with our ultimate essential items list for harvesting and carrying out wild game meat. From a good knife and bone saw to trekking poles and game bags, these essential items will make your big game pack out a whole lot easier. So, get ready, gear up, and let’s go!
The Sharp Edge of Success: A Good Knife and Bone Saw
Harvesting an animal and quartering game animals require precision and efficiency. That's where a good knife and bone saw come in. You may come across various knives designed for specific tasks, and even comprehensive kits for quartering. However, they can be heavy, and the last thing you want is unnecessary weight. The key is simplicity: one high-quality knife and a bone saw. A sharp knife is your workhorse - it skins, parts, and debones an animal cleanly. Opt for knives with replaceable blades, or always have a sharpener at hand. A sharper knife means a cleaner cut, minimizing hair scattered everywhere during hide removal. The bone saw might not see much action, but it significantly simplifies organ removal. Good bone saws are affordable and don't need to be fancy. Together, these two tools can help transform a 200-400 pound animal into manageable parcels. Remember, the sharper the tool, the cleaner the work. Choose the ones that suit you best but ensure they're always in peak condition. Watch your digits as don't cut yourself!
Carry Your Success: A Good Backpack
Choosing the right hunting backpack is crucial for a successful pack-out. Remember, you'll be lugging a heavy load; hence comfort and functionality are paramount. Ensure the hunting backpack fits your body properly, particularly the waist strap. The better the fit, the longer you can endure without discomfort. Backpacks designed with meat compartments are ideal for packing out game. The hunting bag frame allows the removal of the bag while securing the game meat close to your back, keeping bloody meat separate from your gear. High-end hunting backpacks often sell the frame separately from the bag, enabling you to customize for different hunting scenarios. A good meat carrying compartment will strap the weight close to your body and allow the weight to distribute nicely over your hips and reduce strain on your shoulders. With the right backpack, carrying your success becomes a less daunting task.
Preserve Your Prize: A Good Set of Game Bags
When it comes to harvesting big game and carrying out meat, game bags have become indispensable. These aren't your grandmother's cotton bags. New age, reusable game bags are microbial fabrics, keep your meat clean and deter insects from laying eggs. As an added advantage, they ward off dirt and grass, ensuring your hard-earned prize stays pristine. Unlike the old-style cotton bags, which were prone to stretching and could be cumbersome, these are much easier to handle. They come in various sizes to accommodate large quarters, and are firm, allowing for easy strapping to hunting backpacks. Most brands offer affordability, and given their washability, a set of these can pay for itself after a few pack-outs. Remember, not every hunt ends with the ability to drag your harvest straight to a processing facility. That's when these large game bags come into play. Invest is a decent set of reusable game bags to your pack-out kit and ensure your meat stays fresh and protected until you reach home.
Maintain Your Balance: A Good Pair of Trekking Poles
Once your backpack is loaded with meat, the real challenge begins. A multi-mile hike back to the trailhead, over uneven and tricky terrain, is no easy feat, especially with added weight. Here's where a good set of trekking poles can be your best Allie. While you may not use them at all times, they shine during these strenuous returns. Hiking poles aid in maintaining balance and stability, easing navigation through challenging landscapes. They also offer respite, providing support as you rest mid-climb or leverage during uphill pulls or steep declines. Don't be misled by their simplicity; the relief trekking poles provide to your back and knees is significant. Numerous styles are available, and packable, lightweight poles fit almost any budget without sacrificing quality. While they might seem like a luxury at first, when the going gets tough, you'll be glad to have them in your pack out arsenal.
Stay Hydrated and Energized: Water and Snacks
Packing out meat is no walk in the park. It demands energy and can lead to significant water loss through sweating. Staying hydrated and energized is paramount for your success. That's where water and snacks come into the equation. A hydration system, such as a camel pack, can be a real lifesaver. It offers a convenient way to carry and consume water while on the move. An emergency water cleaning device, like a life straw, could prove invaluable, providing safe drinking water when you've depleted your reserves. Additionally, pack high-calorie, good quality snacks. These will provide you with the necessary fuel to power through those strenuous moments and make the difference between a smooth pack out and a struggle. Think nuts, energy bars, jerky, and dried fruit, which are all compact, lightweight, and full of energy. Remember, your body is the most important tool in this pack out process. So, fuel it well and keep it hydrated for a successful pack out experience.
Conclusion
Harvesting and packing out big game is a rewarding, albeit strenuous, endeavor. Preparation is key, and having the right gear is crucial for success. Armed with a high-quality knife and bone saw, you can efficiently quarter your game. A comfortable, functional backpack ensures you can carry your haul without unnecessary strain, while game bags protect your hard-earned prize. Don't forget your trekking poles for added stability during the journey back, and always remember to stay hydrated and fueled up with water and high-energy snacks. This list is by no means exhaustive, but these are the fundamental items you'll need for a successful pack-out. As every hunter knows, a successful hunt isn't just about taking down the game; it's about bringing it home. It's a challenging task, but with the right tools and preparation, you'll be well equipped to meet the challenge head-on. So, gear up, venture into the wild, and remember, the hunt is only half the game. The real work begins after the shot. But with these essentials, you're all set for success. Now, game on!
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