05/31/2021
I’ve recently received some messages asking for some tips to getting back into hunting after a major surgery as well as a few other questions so I thought I’d cover a few in this post. Even if you haven’t had any medical issues maybe this can help you.
None of these are in order as I feel they are all equally important and I honestly wouldn’t do without any of them.
Tip #1 - Don’t push it!
Stay motivated but you don’t want to find yourself never getting to hunt again because you couldn’t be patient with your body. I can speak from experience. I pushed things along due to stubbornness and it set me back. I’m not saying stare out the window and wonder what you’re missing...this will lead to depression. Take this time to strategize, get stronger, ready your equipment, inventory, etc.
Tip #2 - Emergency contact.
I would highly recommend hunting with a friend, wife/husband, or neighbor for your first season back but if that’s not possible make sure someone knows your location and that you can get ahold of them quickly. I always share my location with my wife and I have a few friends that I can call to say “help” and they are on the way. I use huntstand to share my location with Steven Schmidt and Davey Jensen. I really like this app because it gives me a way to strategize with my friends and keeps me pumped throughout the season. I would also utilize the s.o.s. function on my phone if I needed it.
Tip #3 - Extra equipment.
This will be based off what you need but in my case I require something to monitor HR and blood o2. That’s why I have a pulse oximeter in this picture. I’ve since purchased an Apple Watch that is easier to pack around and it allows me to send/share my location, HR, o2, and ECG but they do come with a price. A great investment for sure but a pulse ox works too. Also, I am on a blood thinner for the rest of my life. Even though I have created some extra steps at staying safe I do saddle hunt and things do happen. For that reason I carry a bleed stop pack and a tourniquet. I would recommend all hunters keep these 2 items in their pack. They are cheap and offer great insurance. Any type of emergency meds need
To go with you as well. You don’t have to enter the woods sounding like a maraca, just take what you might need for that hunt. I personally use an SD card reader case to hold my emergency meds in place.
Tip #4 - Test your body with your current equipment.
Keep in mind you are healing and may need to adjust things. First season back my max pull weight was 55lbs and even that was a struggle. I was use to a 70lb bow but my chest was just too weak.
Tip #5 - build muscle.
You will be amazed at how much muscle you lost...even for those who haven’t had surgery. My 90 year old Grandmother use to tell me you gotta use it before you lose it. I used cable weights to get back to that point as well as swimming.
Tip #6 - Accept your limitations.
If this means driving closer to the stand just do it, if it means you will need a crossbow...no shame brother/sister just get one. Whatever the case may be. Maybe it’s just to get rolling again but if it’s forever at least you’re still getting out there.
Tip #7 - Take it all in.
Be humble and thankful that the Lord has brought you out of the pain and that it was all worth it to be sharing a memory with friends/family.
I have some packing tips, exercise tips, medications tips (on what I take) climbing tips, sitting tips, and overall organization that I’d love to share with you all. If I can get enough interest I will do a video breakdown of each. Thank you for all your support and as always hunt hard and stay safe. Tray J
