Nine Bar Ranch Blog
Successful Hunter Resolutions for 2021
By this time in the year, we’ve all failed on a resolution or two. If you want to make resolutions that are a breeze to keep, we recommend choosing some that will help you as you endeavor to become a successful hunter. Resolutions for the avid and/or up-and-coming hunting enthusiast include:
- Save Up for a New Expedition
Nine Bar Ranch has hunting packages perfect for every budget. Choose your target vacation, then start setting aside funds weekly. Before long, you’ll be here, hot on the trail of the game of your dreams. Hunting a new kind of game is akin to discovering the sport all over again, so peruse our wide array of game, and take note of what makes your heart skip a beat.
- Get Organized for Your Trip
Once you’ve decided on your ideal hunting package, you’re ready to get your gear in order. While it takes some time to go over your weapons and clean them, organize your ammo, and sort your hunting clothing, you’ll be well rewarded when packing up for your trip is a breeze.
While you’re organizing your gear, discard anything that’s worn out. If you have gear that you no longer need, consider selling it or passing it on to a friend who can use it this year. The less clutter you hang on to, the easier it will be to grab and go when you’re in the mood to head out hunting.
- Refine Your Skills
Even seasoned hunters can benefit from brushing up on their skills. Whether this is your year to get the hang of a new type of weapon, work on your stealth, improve your speed and reflexes, or just stick to a regular schedule of target practice, be sure to spend time becoming the best hunter you can in 2021.
- Improve Your Physique
We believe that hunters of all physical abilities will have an incredible time here at our ranch. We also believe that every hunter can improve their skills just by getting in better shape! We’re certain that by working hard you’ll arrive to hunt with pride and self-confidence thanks to your improved physique.
- Bring a Friend
The number of skilled hunters dwindles with every passing decade. This year, make it your mission to reach out to someone you know who has expressed an interest in the sport, but hasn’t gotten into it yet. An exciting trip to Nine Bar Ranch could be just the motivation required for them to take the plunge!
Beginners usually don’t have the gear to really have a good experience. By taking your friend under your wing and allowing them to learn from you, your friend will experience the joy of using a good gun properly. We’re willing to wager that’s all it takes to add an avid new hunter to the sport.
- Cue Up Delicious New Recipes
Once you know what you’d like to hunt, track down some game-specific recipes! From boar to venison and beyond, the rewards of hunting shouldn’t stop with the takedown.
Cooler Weather Gear for Comfortable North Texas Hunting
A chill has set in at the ranch and it’s time for a change in gear. Your breathable summer gear for keeping cool and dry can be stored away for next season and it’s time to take out the essentials that will keep you warm while you’re outside all day and after sunset. Here’s the gear you’ll need to pack to be prepared for the winter weather you might experience as a North Texas hunting aficionado.
Soft shell jacket and pants
Soft shell outerwear has the advantage of being lightweight so your warmth comes from the material, not bulkiness. You won’t feel encumbered under padding. The inner layer is usually warm fleece so you won’t have to wear too many extra layers. You’ll be able to move your arms and legs freely but still stay quiet while walking so you don’t alert your prey. There’s nothing worse than the swooshing sound of bad nylon when you’re going for stealth. The fabric is designed to be breathable and wick away moisture from your skin, keeping you comfortable all day.
Thermal layers
Temperatures can change thirty degrees or more throughout the day so having a thermal base layer will keep your core warm and allow you to remove top layers as the day goes on. Avoid cotton or other fabrics that retain water; if you start to sweat, you’ll be wet all day.
Boots
The need for a good pair of quality hunting boots cannot be overstated. Taking care of your feet is paramount. A slip in rough terrain could cause a broken ankle. Poor water protection can result in toe fungus. Arch support and mobility are important for comfort and the ability to log the miles needed to cover your ground. Take care of your feet, and they’ll take care of you.
Wool socks
Wool is great at retaining heat, so get yourself some wool or wool blend socks.
NOTE: Make sure your boots are big enough to fit thick socks comfortably.
Hand warmers and toe warmers
Small hand warmers for your pockets and toe warmers for your socks can rescue numbing digits from the cold. There are rechargeable ones that activate with a push of a button or you can get one-time use warmers that activate by squeezing and shaking the warming chemical in the pouch.
Expandable pack with water bladder
An expandable pack will need to have enough space for extra ammo, butt storage, protein bars to keep you going, and any emergency gear. The important thing to remember is to keep hydrated. Even though it’s not hot out, you can still dehydrate, so drink plenty of water.
Head gear
Different hunters prefer different types of head protection. A balaclava can protect your nose, chin, cheeks, neck, and ears all at once. A beanie offers head warmth but leaves ears exposed. A fleece headband can protect the ears but little else. UV protective eyewear is essential so you’re not squinting in the sun and can see the slight variations of a moving animal. The key is to be comfortable but not impair your senses so that you can call your North Texas hunting outing a success.