It happens every year, when the daytime highs become more tolerable and a nip fills the nighttime air. Excitement builds as Mother Nature reminds us that hunting season is coming soon.
Before modern gun deer season is deemed underway at sunrise Nov. 11, a few other designated hunts will occupy a hunter's time.
Archery season opens Saturday. Though the season is not for me, what with all the ticks and chiggers, many hardcore hunters have been readying bows and arrows for some time.
The Private Land Antlerless Only modern deer hunt follows on the morning of Oct. 14. I have no intentions of "bringing home the action" during this hunt but likely will kick back in my stand and watch the deer stroll by, making mental note of any animal that comes within sight.
With a little luck, I'll see a couple of shooter bucks before this five-day season is deemed over. And although they'll be off limits during this particular hunt, anything I can learn about their patterns will prove helpful during the muzzle-loading season Oct. 21-29.
Once the muzzle-loading season ends, it will be only a few weeks from the modern gun hunt, which beings Nov. 11. Arkansas' most popular hunting season remains open until Dec. 3 in Zone 11. Those of us hunting in Zone 13 may continue until Dec. 17.
What's more, two other three-day seasons are scheduled in late December, though by then I figure to be tired of deer hunting.
Unlike some years, when I was getting prepared a day or two before the opening morning, I'm gathering my gear in preparations for the months ahead, though waiting until the last minute to ensure my camo gear is scent free.
I must secure a short piece of cordage to keep on my person at all times. I'll install fresh batteries in my GPS and light. My knife must be sharpened, and the glass on my binoculars and range finder should be cleaned.
I must stock up on ammunition, planning to shoot a fair share of targets before stepping into the woods. Preparing for an array of weather conditions, I'll have lightweight clothing ready for the early part of the season while keeping insulated undergarments, gloves and beanie on standby for cold mornings.
With precipitation apt to come any day, let's not forget rain wear. A pair of rubber boots will prove helpful at those times and also help conceal my scent.
It's time to gear up for the new hunting season. With a little luck and preparation, it will one that's stress free and filled with success.
Sports on 09/19/2017