Thread: New Hunter

Gibo is on to it get a GPS but also get a compass and learn how to use the WAMS mapping system - its called Walking Access mapping system one can change from aerial photos to topographical maps- take a map of the hunting block with you preferable laminated - leave a map with the wife and a time to push panic button if you dont show up ( we always used 10 am next day ) you may want it sooner - when you set out try to hunt in same catchment for a start - but you must be able to tell where you are in relation to the ridge and river systems in the area and be able to keep yourself orientated to them - as a general warning dont drop into rivers or streams to come out unless you have travelled them - many are simply not an easy job to travel down - gorges waterfalls can mean tiring climbing to get around - ridges are normally a lot better - but use a river or track system as a fixed point to hunt off if you can - the big danger in our bush is getting into a catchment over the ridge from the one you are in and the streams and river and ridges will be going in an opposite direction - that's when a GPS is valuable but have a compass and map as a back up - especially true if you go with someone who knows the area - fine when you are with them but if they disappear what then - and yes as others have said NZDA could be a wise move especially the hunts course - I was a hunts instructor years ago and its good