If we are being honest with ourselves, all of us can become better at hunting and fishing. Getting in good physical condition is a great start. Applying ourselves to practicing with our choice of weapon or rod and reel is definitely beneficial as well. But there is an often overlooked method that could help us to fully maximize our time spent in the outdoors.
Start a journal
Starting and maintaining a hunting and/or fishing journal is a step that could lead us to greater success in our chosen pastime. I grew up during a time when most, if not all, of the people I knew that kept a journal were female. This is just one more example of our wives always being a step (or two or three) ahead of us guys. My lovely wife tells me this all the time.
Details matter
We need to open our minds to the fact that if done correctly, this type of journal can open up a world of useful information. We can use it as a time of reflection to what did and didn’t work. We can get very detailed about the information that we record. It should be more than just the temperature and weather. Let’s get into it.
A deer hunting journal
A deer-specific journal should include the following information:
- Date
- Hunting area
- Stand location
- Who you were with
- Weapons used
- How many animals did you see, buck or doe
- Rubs, scrapes, harvest
- Direction deer came from
- Temperature
- Wind speed and direction
- Clouds, precipitation
- How long
- How much
- Barometric pressure
- Cold front
- Lunar phase
By journaling, you will become a more strategic hunter. Deer have so many natural advantages on us, being diligent with a journal is one way to level up and give yourself a better chance at success. Consistency is paramount.
A fishing journal
A fishing-specific journal should include the following information:
- Date
- Area fished
- Who you were with
- Bait used
- How many did you catch, species, size, weight
- Eggs present Y/N
- Air temp
- Water temp
- Water clarity
- Wind direction, speed
- Clouds, precipitation
- Lunar phase
We all know there are days when you just cannot catch a fish. It is so frustrating. Looking back on a journal over time could reveal why those days may be occurring.
Methods for making entries
How your journal looks and how you make entries into it are totally a matter of preference.
- Phone apps
There are many apps to choose from. I found a hunting app, TrophyTracks, which includes journaling. Their free version also offers tracking, weather, trail cam management, mapping and navigation. These features are very helpful when out in the field. There is also the ability to use this app with no cell service. You enter the information and it will sync up when cell service returns.
- Computer apps
You may also choose to journal on your home computer. The one drawback to this method is you may be too tired to make your entry after a long day of hunting. Remember, consistency is key.
- Old school (By hand)
Use a notebook and a pen. Can’t get any easier than that! There’s nothing wrong with the old tried and true method. The great thing about a journal is that each of us can develop one to fit our needs. The challenge is to start it and then faithfully keep it going. You can choose to pass your journal down to a family member or a friend. It can be a great legacy for the younger hunters in your life who can learn and profit from your lifetime of experiences.
Keep it up!
I have said many times how much I love to strategize, especially when I am deer hunting. Journaling is where the strategy begins.
In my opinion, if you apply yourself, keep up your journal and use it to strategize, you will be a better hunter and fisherman. Whatever it takes and however you decide to start your journal, JUST DO IT!
