Women are in the field in record numbers and more are taking an avid interest in hunting every day. If your wife or girlfriend has asked you to take her hunting and it’s her first time kicking it with you in the great outdoors, here are a few things to consider.
She is curious. Her curiosity means she wants to learn more about your world and become involved in your interests and hobbies. Even if she has little or zero outdoor experience, time together in the wilds can be the ultimate bonding experience.
When describing conditions and terrain, don’t hold back, be specific. No surprises. Tromping around in the outdoors isn’t for the faint of heart. If you want her to be prepared and as comfortable as possible, make sure she’s well informed. Take time to make a list of the necessary items she will need for the season and the area you will be hunting.
Practice non-verbal communication ahead of time. There are going to be times when silence is key and to not only ensure a successful hunt, but safety as well, make sure you are in sync with your partner. It can also save you a few hours of arguing on the way home.
Do not be condescending and don’t treat her like she’s stupid. This may be an environment and situation that is new to her and in some cases, completely alien. It’s your job to show your partner the ropes, explain and teach her about this part of your world. Do so with respect and patience.
A Few Words for the Ladies
Be ready for hard work. If you are serious about following your fellow in the field, be ready to walk and climb for miles. The weather can be wet, brittle cold or blistering hot and giving up half way through your adventure isn’t an option. Respect his time, and love of the season. Hunting seasons are short, and if you really aren’t ready to go the distance, this may not be the time to head outdoors. If you are unsure, ask him earlier in the year if you can tag along on a few short scouting trips to test the waters before committing to a hunt.
You will smell like dirt. Or possibly something worse. Keep in mind the intent is to be invisible and that means you need to smell like the great outdoors. How you wash your clothes, hair and face, which antiperspirant/deodorant you use is essential to how much you will not be noticed. Everything needs to change for your adventure. When in doubt, ask your hunting partner.
Leave the diva status at home. Like it or not, you need to defer to the expert. Listen to what he/or she is telling you and if you find yourself in a position where a brusk demand is made by your partner, follow the order. You may be in a situation where there isn’t time for an explanation for safety reasons. Follow up with questions later.
Comfort isn’t always an option. There are several things you can do to be as comfortable as possible, but keep in mind there are times and situations where you swear your backside doesn’t have enough padding, you put your hands or hind end on cactus, the wind blows so hard your eyes water, branches catch your cheek and you find yourself stomping around in mud and water. Do not under estimate yourself. More than likely you did all of this when you were 7, you can do it as an adult. It’s all part of the journey, embrace it.
Practice noise control. Either turn your phone completely off, or turn off the sounds, including the vibrate on silent option. Chances are, if you are going to receive a call, text, or notification, it’s going to come in at the worst possible time. Trust me, it’s not something you want to hear about all the way home.
Patience is required. There will be long periods of sitting quietly and five minutes sometimes feels like 30. If you’re serious about getting involved and participating in your partners outdoor world, observation is essential.
Above all, respect each other. Spending the time working together on an outdoor quest is an excellent couples bonding experience. If you find you like it, then take the next step and head out to the range to learn your new skills.
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