Hunting from a blind

Level of difficulty: Easy

Effectiveness: Very successful for a patient rifle hunter or bowhunter

Terrain: Open, barren grounds or flat landscapes that provide no cover for still hunting or stalking

A hunting blind is a cover device you can use to reduce the chance of detection. In open landscapes, the game will see you approaching well before you see them. Hence, the use of a blind could very well give you the advantage.

Here are the steps to follow when hunting from a blind.

1. Choose a blind. Your blind could be as simple as some fallen timber or a small bush to conceal your presence. You can make a blind from almost any natural resource or buy a pop-up blind that is very lightweight and easy to set up. Most good hunting retailers offer a tent-like blind available in many different camouflage patterns.
2. Choose your site. Choosing your site is the most important part of setting up your blind. Make sure that the blind looks as natural as possible and offers a clear view of the animals. It must also be concealed so it does not interrupt the natural landscape. Always consider the wind direction, as the unnatural scent of the blind and your scent can spook the animals.
3. Set up the blind. Make sure the blind looks as natural as possible. You are in the animal’s home, and it is sure to notice a new pop-up blind sitting out in the open. Always make sure the wind is in your face. Human scent wafting into your hunting area will surely spook every animal within nose shot. If you can, set up the blind before you plan to hunt the area. This will give the animals some time to get used to the blind’s presence.
4. Clear a shooting lane. Using a blind means you don’t have the flexibility of movement to improve the sighting of an animal. Take some time to clear any limbs and branches that could get in the way of a successful shot.
5. Choose the best time. Timing is crucial. Try and get into your blind before daylight. Alternatively, try early in the afternoon before the animals begin to feed. It is important to avoid bumping into an animal on your way in. Walk to the blind downwind, keep your movements concealed and avoid using game trails. Animals will pick up your scent if you’re using the same trails as they are.