Going solo

[MoldedbyNature]

Solo is so much more fun to me.

Put together a schedule for glassing so you can cover as much country as possible. Only thing you give up is eyeballs, so be strategic about giving every basin/vantage point a first and last light look rather than bouncing around.

Bring a good book for inclement weather or mid day chillin

For Mule deer how long do you usually dedicate to glassing one specific area before moving on to your next spot on the schedule

 

[Dugstad]

I’ll be solo for a 9-10 day trip this fall. Looking forward to it minus the grizzlies.

 

[bowhuntercoop]

For Mule deer how long do you usually dedicate to glassing one specific area before moving on to your next spot on the schedule

I will Glass the same basin or general area for 3ish days before I bounce away from it a good ways. A lot of times just moving a few hundred yards and getting a different vantage point will turn up some animals.

South taught me years ago no such thing as too much glassing, but too much walking and being restless is real. Not saying it’s bad to explore, but a lot of guys don’t glass enough or give an area enough time imo.

 

[kroppr77]

I’ve hunted solo on 90% of my hunts. It can be super rewarding doing it all on your own. You don’t need to run game plans by anyone, or have anyone to blame. At the end of the day, all the responsibility falls on your shoulders.

I’ve had multiple guys throw in the towel on hunts with me. It’s super rare for me to actually have a positive hunting experience with a partner. That being said, it’s harder and harder as life goes on to even count on another person with schedules and all of that.

I’d recommend some audiobooks and podcasts for glassing, and being in the tent at night. Earplugs might help too for sleeping at night, especially in griz country. I also like cut proof (kitchen/chef) gloves for cutting up game by myself in the backcountry. One bad hand cut can really screw things up being solo.

Extensive med kit, inreach, backup headlamp, always having rain gear and puffy jacket… are non negotiable in my experience

 

[Legend]

In August the sun sets late and is up early. You can run yourself in the dirt with all that daylight. Plan for midday naps!

 

[Gvcub]

IMHO Trust your instincts, stay patient, pack smart, and always know your exit.