It’s a busy time of year for both outfitters and hunters. Summer is here and we are busy opening our camps, getting ready for the 2016 hunting season. Meanwhile, many hunters are finalizing travel plans, checking gear, going to the shooting range and making sure they are ready for the coming adventures.

If you haven’t seen our recent post on Rifle Practice, go back and check that out. Practicing with your rifle could very well be the most important thing you do in the off-season. However, if you prioritize anything else this summer, we recommend that you focus on getting in shape!

Physical training and a hunter’s overall level of fitness is something that can have a real impact on the hunt. Here are two great reasons why you should get in better shape for your 2016 hunt:

1. You Will Have More Fun

When it comes to fitness, the first thing hunters often think about is being able to climb a steep ridge in pursuit of that trophy mountain goat, or slogging through deadfall and marshy ground to get within range of that giant bull moose. But the real number one reason to be in better shape, is because you will have more fun.

Mountain hunting can be hard work. It can be challenging. For many hunters, that’s a part of why we love it. But when you’re in good physical conditions, those challenges will be more fun, more memorable and will result in a sense of accomplishment, not defeat. When you’re making that steep climb or rushing to get into position for a shot, you’ll be able to enjoy the moment and not simply curse the pain.

2. You Will Be More Successful

More opportunities will come to those who can do more. Now that’s not to say you won’t have any good opportunities if you’re not in good shape. We work with clients each year who have real physical limitations and we help them take some great trophies. But if your physical condition is a factor that you can control, it’s something that’s worth working on. More doors of opportunity will open when you’re able to do more physically.

This is true with many types of hunting, but especially true on mountain hunts or wilderness hunts like we experience here in northern British Columbia. If you’re in the best shape that you can be, it gives our guides more options in terms of getting within range of a trophy animal. Whether it’s a mountain caribou, a stone sheep or a grizzly, the better shape you’re in, it will open up more opportunities for you and your guide.