My packing list has been honed over the years. It has everything I need and nothing I don't. Most of it stays packed in 2-3 clear plastic bins. I like clear ones so I can see what's inside. If a piece of gear craps out on a hunt, it gets repaired or replaced immediately so I have plenty of time to test and evaluate the repair or replacement before the next season starts.
The packing list comes from the notes that I make after a hunt so I don't forget anything that I learned. Topics for notes include:
- Hunt name, location, and dates
- Packing list
- Narrative: Describe what happened in chronological order.
- What new non-firearms gear did you use on this trip? How well did it work? Would you use it again?
- What gear might help on future hunts in this area?
- Describe the performance of the guns/loads your party used and speculate on improvements.
- Describe the performance of the sights your party used and speculate on improvements.
- Describe likely shots in the area where you hunted. Note terrain, vegetation, likely response of game, and any other conditions that might affect shooting.
- Describe gun handling skills that hunters need for this specific hunt. What drills might help improve them?
- What do hunters new to this area need to know? What drills could help them develop the skills they need?
- Describe and justify any firearms modifications you think necessary.
- Describe your physical preparation for this hunt and suggest improvements.
- Describe your hunting strategy and speculate on improvements.
- Describe your tactics and speculate on improvements.
- Describe your maps, aerial imagery, and related equipment. Suggest improvements.
- Describe the food you took and suggest improvements.
- Describe any other planning or research that might improve future hunts in this area.
- Why did this hunt succeed/fail? How could you improve your chances?
- Other lessons learned
- To Do List for next year
Every day and especially around the fire at night, I take a few minutes to make notes. I also make notes as I drive home and as I clean up gear, process meat, etc. I write the report within a couple of days so I don’t forget anything.
I often hunt with guys who have varying levels of experience so this helps me learn from their successes and failures as well as my own.
Okie John
